When the orchestra tours the world, Chinese musicians usually perform one or two popular songs for local audiences. It is a good way to let Western audiences enjoy Chinese folk music, Xi says.

During last year's Meet in Beijing Arts Festival, Qingdao Symphony Orchestra performed Latin music for a special section, and was well received by audiences.

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This year, percussionists from Trinidad and Tobago, a vocalist from Ecuador and a violinist from Mexico will perform when the Chinese orchestra plays.

"People enjoy the music of Latin America because it is rarely performed in China. The combination of traditional Chinese folk instruments and Latin American music will also bring them a fresh experience," says Mu Wen from China Arts and Entertainment Group, which presents the festival.

Three members of Colombian dance company, Sankofa, including two dancers, Yndira Perea Cuesta, Willian Camilo Perlaza and percussionist Feliciano Blandon Salas, will perform their award-winning dance show Short but Eternal this weekend.

Earlier this month, the same artists had performed at Chaoyang Park .

"This is our first time in China and we are surprised to see the audiences' enthusiastic reaction to our music and dance," says Cuesta, 35, who founded the troupe a decade ago.

She also says that the name of the troupe, Sankofa, comes from an African phrase that means to go back to the roots. "Our dance work, Short but Eternal, just reflects our African roots."

IF YOU GO

7:30 pm, May 25. National Center for the Performing Arts, No 2 West Chang'an Jie (Avenue), Xicheng district, Beijing. 010-6655-0000.

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