A Dutch brass ensemble joins students from Zhejiang University of Water Resources and Electric Power's Nanxun campus in a musical performance in Nanxun district, Huzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Nantaihuhao App]

A Dutch brass ensemble has joined students from Zhejiang University of Water Resources and Electric Power's Nanxun campus in a musical performance in Nanxun district, Huzhou, Zhejiang province, blending Western brass music with traditional Chinese percussion.

The concert was jointly organized by the university and the Nanxun District Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese as part of an initiative to promote cultural exchanges through overseas Chinese networks.

The program featured Western works, including Shostakovich's Waltz No 2 and Capriccio, alongside Chinese songs such as My Motherland, Nanniwan, and Song and Smile.

One highlight came when the visiting musicians performed Hao Han Ge (Song of Heroes) alongside students playing traditional Chinese percussion instruments, including gongs and large drums. Audience members stood up to sing along, filling the theater with applause and cheers.

The concert was facilitated by Shen Yongwei, a Nanxun native who has long worked in cultural exchanges in Europe.

The musicians also visited Nanxun Ancient Town, exploring Xiaolianzhuang Garden and Jiayetang Library. They later visited Cai Residence in Hongqiao Lane, Shuanglin town, and tried traditional cultural activities such as brush calligraphy and fan-making.

The visit offered the musicians an opportunity to experience local history and traditional crafts beyond the concert stage.