China's Imperial Bells reverberate in Sydney

Sydney residents did not have to get on time machine to enjoy the music played on the ancient Chinese Imperial Bells, dated between 2,000 to 3,600 years old, since artists from China's Hubei Province presented an impressive concert featuring Chinese traditional music instruments and ethnic songs on Tuesday night.

Each piece of classic presented by musicians and singers from Hubei Bells Orchestra, featuring Chinese traditional musical instruments, including the Chinese Imperial Bells, or bronze chime bells, was followed by vibrant applause and hails.

The musicians presented not only Chinese traditional and modern musical classics like Spring Festival Overture, Jasmine Flowers and Hong Lake Capricio Suite but also Australian folk song Waltzing Matilda and Johann Stauss' masterpiece Radetzky March, all with Chinese musical instruments.

"That's an incredible combination between Chinese instruments and western music. I was so impressed by the amazing music experience," John Roberson, 52, a local resident said.

Zhang Tong, the Deputy Governor of Hubei Province told Xinhua: "Music knows no borders. With music, we managed to bring the two nations closer. Hopefully, we can have more opportunities to conduct international cultural exchange in the future to enhance peace and understanding."

An important part of Sydney's Lunar New Year celebrations, the music concert was organized by Hubei Provincial Government and supported by Sydney City Council.

There will also be Dragon Boat Races, Chinese New Year Markets, contemporary and traditional arts, and entertainment and food community events held in Sydney in the upcoming days.