Hubei Chimes Orchestra learns Taoism at Wudang

The 90 performers of Hubei Chimes Orchestra visited scenic spots on the Wudang Mountains–including Golden Summit, Nanyan Palace, Zixiao Palace and Yuzhen Palace–on Jan 10. They were overwhelmed by what they saw and experienced during the visit.

Their first stop was Golden Summit. Beautiful natural scenery and the copper hall deeply impressed them. Zhang Hongyang, the head of the orechestra, said he hoped that the performers could make sense of the Taoist thought of unifying culture and nature at the sight of the impressive scenery and grand ancient buildings in order to realize the unity of music and the human mind and bring better performances to audiences.

The scenic area's promise that "any visitor will not be treated wrongly on the Wudang Mountains" has been firmly followed. The scenic spot attracts thousands of visitors from home and abroad.

The performers also spoke highly of Wudang’s service. According to Zhang, the road signs, caution boards, cable railways as well as the service at the hotels were all representative of Wudang’s promise. The workers there were devoted and enthusiastic regardless of the ice and snow on the mountains, building a warm and cozy environment for visitors. They delivered an excellent reception for the performers, earning them extensive praise.

The Wudang Mountains have attracted many large film shoots in recent years. The shooting locations have also attracted many visitors. Many of the visitors have been so delighted by the scenery that they were willing to learn more about the area's culture and mysterious atmosphere.

The performers were intensely interested in the Taoist cultural deposits reflected in the architectural patterns of Zixiao Palace after visiting the spot where the film Wu Dang was shot. Not only did the performers learn the depth and profundity of Taoist culture, but they also visited the site of the former Three Regiment Army, which reinforced their understanding of revolution history in Wudang.

The group of performers went to Yuzhen Palace as their last stop. The elevation protection program of Yuzhen Palace is the largest and most valuable historical relic protection project in China's South-to-North Water Diversion plan. The performers were all overwhelmed by the magnitude of the program and its future plan. The various changes in the scenic spot has inpirsed them to visit here more in the future.

Hubei Chimes Philharmonic Orchestra is composed of national maestros and outstanding young performers, playing the chime-bell and Chinese folk music. The orchestra has performed in many countries and regions. They often play at the New Year's concert.