Beethoven in Beijing

History Making Productions and the Philadelphia Orchestra are hosting a virtual 250th birthday celebration for Ludwig van Beethoven, Beethoven in Beijing, on December 16th at 7:30 PM.  

Beethoven in Beijing, awarded the Best Historical Documentary by the San Antonio Film Festival, dramatizes the resurgence of classical music in China and the role the Philadelphia Orchestra has played in igniting this renaissance. Western music was virtually extinguished in the People’s Republic during the tumultuous Cultural Revolution of 1966-76, but the Orchestra’s 1973-breakthrough visit signaled a reawakening. The result, nearly 50 years later, is a country with legions of young musicians, glittering new concert halls and a lineup of superstar artists and composers who are changing the world of classical music. This remarkable story is brought to life through charismatic personalities like pianist Lang Lang, conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Oscar-winning composer Tan Dun.

This film, screening in 2020 at film festivals across the country, combines rare archival material with behind-the-scenes footage of the Philadelphia Orchestra’s recent tours of China, all accompanied by glorious music that was once banned there. As orchestras worldwide celebrate Beethoven’s 250th birthday throughout 2020, the film reminds viewers of the power of great art to transcend borders.