BEIJING, Oct. 18 -- Tenor Jose Carreras will perform a solo concert Wednesday at Shenzhen Gymnasium.

    It is believed to be a landmark performance in Shenzhen's cultural history.

    Soon after the tenor's arrival Monday afternoon, he met the local media and music fans at Crowne Plaza Shenzhen.

    Applause and cheers broke up spontaneously as Carreras walked into the conference room, which was packed with journalists, photographers and opera fans.

    Carreras said he was looking forward to the show Wednesday and believed it would be a memorable moment in his life to perform at such a young city.

    He also appreciated what the Shenzhen Performance Company, the organizers of his concert, had done for him, including their efforts in arranging his accommodation, performance venue and local symphony orchestra.

    The city has been looking forward to the high-profile concert for about a month, since his tour of Shenzhen was announced. An opera singing contest was even held to select outstanding singers to perform with the tenor. During the press conference, a winner sang one of Carreras' signature pieces.

    Zheng Weixi, general manager of the performance company, presented a delicately crafted tea set as a gift to the tenor.

    According to Zheng, the concert will not only be a great opportunity to enjoy Carreras' performance, but also a time to display civility.

    She called on audiences to show their respect to the artist by switching off mobile phones, coming in on time and avoiding talking during the show.

    "I hope local audience cherish the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Zheng.

    After the press conference was completed, Carreras wasted no time in going to rehearse with the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra.

(Source: Shenzhen Daily)