In Beijing, The National Center for the Performing Arts aims at not only being the one of the most renowned theaters in the world, but also for being home to first class art troupes of its own. The theater's own orchestra has gone through its first public rehearsal. It gathers together top notch players from around the world.

The newly founded orchestra of the National Center for the Performing Arts played part of the soon to be staged opera "Beauty Xi Shi" at its first public rehearsal.

With an average age of 27, the sixty-two players are chosen from around the world. For the rehearsal, they played while artistic director of the theater Chen Zuohuang held the baton.

Zhuang Ran, Viola Player, said, "I was excited to see the notice that they are recruiting. The theater is beautiful, beside the Tian'anmen square. I decided to do my best at the test. And I was enrolled."

Han Xiaoming, Manager NCPA Orchestra, said, "I am Chinese. I want China to have a terrific orchestra. I hope to bring my playing skills or management experience to the group to serve my compatriots."

Musicians returning from overseas like Zhuang Ran and Han Xiaoming account for more than half of the members of the orchestra. They have worked for renowned symphony orchestras like the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna National Opera Theater.

Ten of the orchestra's musicians are foreigners. They say they are attracted by the theater's shape and nickname "The Egg", and of course its fame in world circles. Many renowned orchestras like Boston and Chicago have staged concerts here.

Renowned musicians, singers, composers, and conductors were invited to the first public exposure of the orchestra. They were impressed at how well the group performed after only being together for one week.

Xu Peidong, Deputy Director, China Musician Assoc., said, "They are young and have mastery in playing. But it's surprising that they are in such harmony after only a short time."

It won't be long before music fans will be able to appreciate the official debut of the orchestra. The National Center for the Performing Arts is planning to forge the group into one of the best in the world. But for any fledging orchestra, this will be a uphill climb.