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Seiji Ozawa Returns to Beijing

Seiji Ozawa and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra excited Beijing on February 24, 2004. In the solemn the Great Hall of the People, 68-year-old Seiji Ozawa gave a wonderful performance for over 6000 music lovers, ranging from musicians to ordinary citizens and kids. This is the first time that world-class Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra visited China.

Born in Chinas north-eastern Liaoning Province and spent his childhood in Beijing, Seiji Ozawa said, "I feel very relaxed when I'm on this stage, as Beijing is my second hometown, and I feel like I am giving a performance for my neighbours." The rapturous applause in the concert hall was the best testimony of the glamour to Seiji Ozawa and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

After Seiji Ozawa's arrival in Beijing on February 22 after a 17-hour trip, he visited his former home and neighbours in Xinkai hutong in Beijing's Dongcheng District. Bringing wine and VIP tickets for these neighbours, he talked happily about his childhood in Beijing. He also visited the Chinese conductor Wu Zuqiang. The most moving scene happened in the Central Conservatory of Music in China. Though the sponsors thought Seiji Ozawa was too tired to give lessons for the students, he insisted on giving lessons after he knew that the students returned one week earlier than usual in participation for his visit.