Symphony puts on private performances for music lovers

Classical music lovers now have a chance to enjoy a private performance by the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra - all they have to do is write a convincing enough application letter that wins the most public votes on the SSO's WeChat account.

The first batch of seven letters that won the hearts of the project committee at the SSO have already been published on the orchestra's WeChat account. The second window for the public to submit their applications ended on Wednesday. There will be two more windows over the course of the year.

Titled "Symphony in the City: SSO for You", this initiative is part of the orchestra's efforts to celebrate its 140th birthday this year. Previously known as the Shanghai Public Band, the SSO is China's first symphony orchestra. Its first documented performance took place in Shanghai in 1879.