On Nov 17, A Portrait Concert: The Music of Zhao Jiping was staged at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, concluding the school's 10.15 Art Festival.

This concert marked the return of renowned composer Zhao to his alma mater after a 40-year hiatus. At 80, Zhao revisited the place where his artistic journey began, reflecting on the warmth, pursuits, and aspirations he experienced when he first enrolled in the school in 1978.

Under the baton of conductor Chen Lin, the symphony orchestra of the Central Conservatory of Music performed Zhao's landmark works, showcasing the breadth of his musical career, from classical music to scores for movies and TV dramas. Soloists, including tenor Wang Chuanyue, soprano Wang Lida, and violinist Lao Li, joined the concert.

Among the highlights was Overture to Yan'an, a symphonic suite that reflects on the Long March (1934-36), a pivotal event in China's revolutionary history. The piece's dramatic interplay of brass and strings evokes the struggles and triumphs of the Red Army, capturing the intensity and spirit of that era.

Zhao's First Violin Concerto was another standout, blending years of philosophical thought and compositional mastery into a powerful expression of self-overcoming and artistic exploration.

His First Symphony, especially the third movement titled Toward Glory, celebrates the resilience and determination of the Chinese people in their pursuit of national rejuvenation. The music conveyed a sense of both grandeur and grace, illustrating the continuous evolution of society and the enduring spirit of the people.

Through these works, Zhao's music echoed the deep cultural roots and historical narratives of China, resonating with both the past and the future.