On Dec 11, the 100th online program-themed Beijing in paintings and melodies-took the audience on a visit to the studio of artist Jiang Guofang. Musicians from the NCPA orchestra, China National Traditional Orchestra and the Central Conservatory of Music performed pieces while oil paintings by Jiang were displayed.

"The NCPA's slogan is 'art changes life'. Though the pandemic has changed our lives and made it harder to enjoy live performances, we still want to take art closer to the audience through online programs," Gong says.

Conductor Li recalls that he joined the NCPA orchestra's first European tour in 2012 and has performed at the NCPA many times.

"For a young orchestra, it was very exciting then. Now, the musicians of the orchestra have grown up from their early 20s to their mid-30s. I'm glad to witness their progress," says Li.

He also notes that in July last year, he gave a live concert at the NCPA, which was his first live performance since the pandemic hit.

"There were just some staff members in the concert hall and we performed in front of cameras. It felt odd without an audience and everyone wore face masks," recalls Li. "I was touched. Despite all the difficulties, we made that concert happen and I will never forget it."

This year, Li's 15-year-old son performed at the NCPA for the first time as a student of the middle school affiliated to the Central Conservatory of Music. The venue offers young musicians a platform to display their talent, Li says.