Beethoven in Beijing: Post-Screening Q&A with Filmmaker

 

Beethoven in Beijing spotlights the resurgence of classical music in China through the legacy of the Philadelphia Orchestra, the first American orchestra to perform in China in 1973. Following the end of China’s Cultural Revolution, when Western classical music was banned in favor of politically themed works, the onset of “Beethoven fever” began. Narrated by American and Chinese musicians and historians, the film explores the impact of the Philadelphia Orchestra’s historic tour on China both then and now. 

 

Renowned musicians, including Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun, Philadelphia-trained famed classical pianist Lang Lang, Philadelphia Orchestra and Metropolitan Opera music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and more share their stories of how Beethoven’s music shaped their careers as China’s classical music scene boomed. Featuring archival footage and first-person recollections from American and Chinese musicians, the documentary brings the 1973 visit to life alongside a behind-the-scenes look at present-day tours capturing the dynamism of China, from its new concert halls to its tens of thousands of young musicians. 

 

 

The documentary is written, co-directed, and produced by Jennifer Lin. Living and working in China for four years as a correspondent for The Philadelphia Inquirer, Lin launched Beethoven in Beijing in 2015 after 31 years at the newspaper. She is an award winning reporter and author of two books.

 

Amy Cohen, the Director of Educator for History Making Productions, will discuss the correlating lesson plans and help educators bring the film into the classroom. Amy is a veteran of twenty years of middle, high school, and university teaching. Click here to view the Beethoven in Beijing lesson plan.

Video is also available on our YouTube channel.