Suzhou has a rich history of old art forms. Pingtan, a singing and storytelling routine that dates back 400 years, and Kunqu Opera, which is more than 600 years old, are among them. The orchestra is keen on widening its repertoire by combining western classics and folk music genres.

On the night of July 9, Kunqu Opera performers and a harp quintet from Suzhou Symphony Orchestra played the classic piece The Peony Pavilion. It was the first crossover show between ancient opera and classical music.

"It allowed me to better understand the ancient art form, and offered audiences a sense of freshness with regard to Kunqu Opera and classical music," says Australian Jessica Fotinos, who is the principal harpist of the orchestra and has listened to the opera when she was a student back home.