Bittersweet symphony

A cleaner works at the National Center for the Performing Arts.

"They represent different cultures and artistic styles but all together this is a credit to NCPA," Chen says.

He says that Ozawa adjusted his schedule several times to make the concerts happen. Chen says that Ozawa, who suffers from a health condition, even refrained from telling his wife and doctor in case they tried to stop him from coming.

All the musicians were impressed by the new theater. "The eggshell is a phenomenal structure, especially the water outside. The atmosphere inside is very comfortable and the performers have close contact with audiences," says the violinist Repin.

"This is absolutely magic, fantastic architecture. It's beautiful, not only to see but hear," says the soprano Battle.

"This is my fourth visit to Beijing, but the experience this time has been the best. I feel so honored to perform with these great artists here.

"Back home in New York, everyone is talking about China and the 2008 Olympics."

Lang Lang played Beethoven's Choral Fantasy in C Minor at the New Year's concerts and gave a master class, which was open to public.