A Special Lunar New Year Concert

Journey Back to the Golden Age of Ancient China

This Chinese New Year, step into the splendor of the Tang Dynasty—an extraordinary era of art, music, poetry, and cultural exchange.

For three days only, San Francisco's historic Great Star Theater welcomes the Ancient Music Orchestra of Xi'an International University (XAIU) for a special concert celebrating the beauty and spirit of ancient Chinese music.

Dressed in magnificent Tang Dynasty-inspired costumes and performing on traditional Chinese instruments, the musicians bring centuries-old musical traditions to life through an unforgettable experience of rhythm, melody, and cultural storytelling.

More than a concert, this is a journey through time—a rare opportunity to experience the sounds of China's golden age, right in the heart of San Francisco Chinatown.

Discover the Extraordinary Instruments of Ancient China

Experience the distinctive sounds of traditional Chinese instruments, each with its own history, character, and expressive voice.

• Pipa (琵琶) — A pear-shaped, four-stringed lute known for its dazzling fingerwork and dramatic, cascading melodies.
• Guzheng (古筝) — A long, plucked-string zither whose flowing tones can evoke peaceful landscapes, flowing rivers, and powerful storms.
• Ruan (阮) — A round-bodied Chinese lute with a warm, mellow sound that adds depth and richness to traditional ensembles.
• Dizi (笛子) — A transverse bamboo flute with a bright, expressive tone, capable of both delicate melodies and lively passages.
• Sheng (笙) — An ancient Chinese mouth organ that produces multiple notes simultaneously, creating rich harmonies.
• Suona (唢呐) — A powerful double-reed wind instrument, famous for its brilliant, penetrating sound and festive energy.
• Erhu (二胡) — A two-stringed bowed instrument often compared to the human voice for its emotional and lyrical expression.
• Gong, Drums & Traditional Percussion (锣鼓) — Resonant percussion instruments that bring ceremonial grandeur, rhythmic excitement, and celebratory energy to the stage.
• Konghou (箜篌) — An ancient Chinese harp with a graceful appearance and shimmering, delicate tones.

Together, these instruments create a rich musical tapestry unlike a Western symphony orchestra—one that reveals the remarkable sophistication and diversity of China's musical heritage.

From Xi'an to the World

Originating in Xi'an, the historic capital of the Tang Dynasty and a major crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, the Ancient Music Orchestra of Xi'an International University is dedicated to reviving, preserving, and sharing China's traditional musical heritage.

Through its international touring program, the ensemble brings the sounds and visual splendor of ancient Chinese music to audiences beyond China, building cultural connections through the universal language of music.

Its mission is both artistic and cultural: to keep ancient musical traditions alive while introducing their beauty to new generations and international audiences.

A Special Celebration of Chinese New Year

Created as a special Chinese New Year presentation at Great Star Theater, Echoes of the Tang Dynasty: A Symphony of Ancient China celebrates renewal, cultural heritage, family, and the joy of coming together.

The festive rhythms of traditional drums, the elegant melodies of ancient string instruments, the vibrant colors of Tang Dynasty-inspired costumes, and the artistry of the performers combine to create a celebration for audiences of all backgrounds.

Whether you're reconnecting with your cultural roots, introducing your children to Chinese traditions, or discovering Chinese music for the first time, this concert offers a meaningful way to welcome the Lunar New Year.

A Historic Theater. An Ancient Tradition. An Extraordinary Celebration.

Located in the heart of San Francisco Chinatown, Great Star Theater has served generations of audiences as a landmark of Chinese performing arts and cultural heritage.

This special engagement brings the music of China's ancient capital to one of San Francisco's most historic Chinese theaters—connecting centuries of artistic tradition across continents.

Five performances only | January 29–31, 2027

Doors open 1 hour before showtime.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year. Discover the sounds of ancient China. Experience the magic of the Tang Dynasty.