China Now Music Festival: Chasing Dreams in NYC
BARD EAST/WEST ENSEMBLE AND CHINA NOW CHAMBER ORCHESTRA - NYC
Friday, October 2, 2026
Zankel Hall Carnegie Hall New York, NY United States
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the ninth season of the China Now Music Festival uses music to tell powerful stories about migration, artistic vision, resilience, and aspirations. The theme, Chasing Dreams, reminds us that the pursuit of dreams is a shared human experience that connects us all.
Our theme is expressed in the two characters 尋 (xún - to search) and 夢 (mèng - dream) — Chasing Dreams. The character 尋 (xún) incorporates 寸 (cùn), an ancient unit of length, evoking the image of an outstretched hand in search of something beyond reach. Within the traditional character 夢 (mèng), one can discern the figure of a person resting on a bed, immersed in dreams.
The 2026 season festival program features two major works, a symphonic oratorio and an opera in one act, along with chamber and orchestral pieces. The music explores stories of artistic vision and perseverance across four concerts that honor the tenacity and bravery of those who have shaped American history.
The 9th annual China Now Music Festival opens with performances at Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall by the cross-cultural Bard East/West Ensemble (BE/WE) and China Now Chamber Orchestra. This year’s theme “Chasing Dreams” celebrates America’s 250th anniversary by telling stories of the shared dreams, resilience, and creativity that connect all of us.
For more information, call 845-758-7026, e-mail [email protected],
or visit https://www.barduschinamusic.org/chasing-dreams.
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: Zankel Hall Carnegie Hall New York, NY United States
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