The Golden Bell Award ceremony is the biggest and most important of its kind to honor the country's leading musicians. As they enter their third year, the award reaches out to a whole spectrum of artists ranging from Erhu players and violinists to composers and singers. But even more significantly, they introduce the general public to music genres previously only available for the exclusive appreciation of the music savvy literate, or the artistic elite.

While giving recognition to the talented musicians and composers who are currently active, the awards are also the chance to offer a big "Thank You" to the towering figures who have left an indelible stamp on the country's musical scene. Altogether 163 violinists, Erhu players and vocalists and 159 music compositions have been sifted through for the preliminary selection.

Starting from this year, Guangzhou, the burgeoning, pulsating commercial hub in south China, will be the annual event's regular host city. The choice of Guangzhou to host the event is regarded as an "onslaught" in a city where pop has the stronghold and embraces everyday life.

Guangzhou has the capacity to host an event of such high profile. I'm quite positive that the cooperation will help make the Golden Bells a brand name for Chinese music and a symbol for the best Chinese musical professionals.

The 10-day Golden Bells Award musical program will begin on December 12.

(CCTV.com November 5, 2003)