As this year’s Winland Christmas Gala Concert on 14 December 2019, the theme of our concert is “(R)evolution and Transcendence” and congratulations on 40^th anniversary of Sino-US diplomatic relations, Mr. Adam Chikeung Yu invited artists from the United States and China, along with China National Opera House Orchestra and its chorus, to present the works from two American composers who are among the most important figures in contemporary opera in the world today – Doctor Atomic (2005) by John Adams and The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs (2017) by Mason Bates, represent the aesthetic of a new millennium and the ascendance of modern minimalism, we hope to create for you a wholly new musical experience. 

It is my great pleasure to help introduce this year's Winland Christmas Gala Concert.

In 2019, we celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and China. Tonight’s program honors that relationship with selections from some of America's greatest and most ambitious composers, including John Adams, Mason Bates, and Aaron Copland.

Their work does more than just reflect history; their music sets new standards and challenges us to look forward, not backward.

When President Nixon visited China in 1972 few could have imagined the breadth and depth of our ties today. The road has not been without challenges. But our engagement has indisputably contributed to prosperity in both countries, and especially in China, where it has fueled progress in business, science, academia, and the arts.

As we consider the last 40 years of U.S.-China relations, I am continually hopeful that the next 40 years will be equally successful.

I want to convey my heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Adam Yu. Thank you for selecting so many wonderful American composers for tonight’s gala and for using music to build bridges among people.

I wish you all an enjoyable and memorable evening.