Following Britain, the orchestra will tour Spain and Germany, with another cultural exchange event planned in Frankfurt.

LONDON, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The China National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) Orchestra launched its first multi-nation European tour in Britain this week, presenting two concerts and a cultural exchange event from Wednesday to Friday that attracted thousands of music lovers.

On Friday night, the concert at Saffron Hall in Essex, eastern England -- the last stop on the orchestra's British tour -- attracted more than 600 audience members, many eager to seize their final chance to hear one of China's leading music ensembles.

As the final notes of composer Chen Qigang's "Wu Xing" (The Five Elements) lingered in the air, applause and cheers erupted throughout the hall. Angela Dixon, director of Saffron Hall, said she was honored to host the Chinese orchestra.

Wednesday night's concert, a highlight of the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival, drew an audience of about 2,000 in Edinburgh. Alongside landmark Chinese symphonic works, the orchestra collaborated with musicians from across the world.

"In both our ensemble makeup and repertoire, this tour reflects our philosophy of being 'rooted in China, embracing the world,'" Ren Xiaolong, general manager of the NCPA Orchestra, told Xinhua Wednesday before the start of the orchestra's first concert in Edinburgh.

"We should learn more about Chinese music and, through it, gain insight into Chinese culture," said Henry Ross, an Edinburgh resident.

"Through our performances, we are telling Chinese stories and conveying the Chinese voice in a vivid and emotional way, allowing audiences worldwide to experience the charm of Chinese culture," said Zhao Haiying, vice president of the NCPA.

On Thursday, orchestra members performed an octet at Edinburgh, blending pieces from China and other countries to promote cultural exchanges.

Lezley Marion Cameron, Depute Lord Provost of Edinburgh, welcomed the Chinese artists and expressed hope to host more NCPA Orchestra members in the future.

Following Britain, the orchestra will tour Spain and Germany, with another cultural exchange event planned in Frankfurt.

"We hope this tour will bring Chinese art and culture to Europe, allowing local audiences to experience the skill and artistry of the Chinese orchestra performers," said Wang Ning, president of the NCPA.