BEIJING, July 22 -- To mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of New China and the 10th anniversary of Macao's return to China, the dynamic Macao Youth Symphony Orchestra kicked off a two-week, four-city China tour entitled Embracing Our Homeland last Friday at Guangzhou's Xinhai Concert Hall and on Sunday night at Macao Cultural Center.

    On Sunday, under the baton of the Brazilian conductor Veiga Jardim, the orchestra premiered the Macao-born composer Bun-Ching Lam's Fountain of Lilau, which was commissioned by the orchestra to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Macao's return to China.

    "Situated in the inner harbor, the fountain of Lilau was formerly the main water source for Macao. Legend says that this fountain possesses a magical power and whoever drinks the water will always return," says the composer Lam, who lived near the fountain and used to play in the area when she was a child.

    "The piece reflects on my childhood, and I try to capture some of the memories."

    The orchestra will also perform at Shanghai's Oriental Arts Center on Saturday, and Beijing's Forbidden City Concert Hall on July 31.

    In addition to the performances, the orchestra members will stay in each of the three cities - Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing - for a few days to see, feel and get to know the history, people and culture of the cities.

    "We choose the three cities to let the young orchestra members learn the varieties of Chinese culture, customs and people," says Hoi Kinwa, chairman of the orchestra. "Guangzhou is the frontier city of China's open and reform policy, Shanghai is one of the biggest metropolises in the world while Beijing has a long history and rich culture.

    "Since Macao returned to China 10 years ago, the local children and youth have got to know more about the Motherland. And for sure, this tour will be a good opportunity for them to learn more," Hoi says.

    "We are proud to perform for people in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou and will be glad to acquaint audiences with Macao through the piece Fountain of Lilau."

    With the initial idea of establishing an orchestra to provide musical training and performing opportunities for local youths, a group of music teachers and former players from the Macao Chamber Orchestra founded the Macao Youth Symphony Orchestra in 1997. It also draws members from local universities, secondary and primary schools.

    Jardim arrived Macao in 1989 and played a pivotal role as artistic director of the fledgling orchestra.

    "Since its inception, 12 years ago, the Macao Youth Symphony Orchestra has touched the lives of hundreds of children," the conductor says.

    "The past few years have seen a further expansion of the orchestra, reflected in its growing number of concerts and tours around Asia and Europe.

    " I feel privileged to have been able to see the orchestra's growth."

    (Source: China Daily)