Intense passage: Italian musicians play at the concert. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The Hangzhou Grand Theater played host to Greetings from Verona, a chamber concert featuring leading Italian musicians and Chinese pianist and Italian resident Ju Jin on the evening of April 18.

The rendition served as a cultural bridge between Hangzhou and Verona — two sister cities — through the universal language of music.

The event was part of the Voices of Spring concert series, which brings four Italian performances to Hangzhou between April 13 and 27, in celebration of the 55th anniversary of China–Italy diplomatic ties in 2025.

The concert opened with the overture to composer Antonio Salieri's opera Danaides, followed by Rossini's vibrant String Sonata in G major and Boccherini's elegant String Symphony in D major. Overall, the Italian ensemble captivated the audience with its baroque brilliance and classical charm.

Pianist Ju Jin, performing in Hangzhou for the first time, shared a personal connection: "My parents honeymooned here and always spoke of its beauty. It's an honor to play Italian music in such a meaningful city," she added.

Blending precision with emotion, the performers brought the romantic essence of Verona to life in Hangzhou, offering an unforgettable evening of cross-cultural resonance.

Picture of consummate concentration: Chinese pianist and Italian resident Ju Jin performs. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]