The annual musical extravaganza in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province – the 2023 Xi'an Symphony Orchestra (XSO) outdoor concert – was staged with pizzazz and panache at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda on Sept 10, taking its audience on a journey of abundance and charm through the richness of music.

The glittering event marked the 11th year of the XSO's dedication to performing under the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

The music soars into the evening sky at the 2023 Xi'an Symphony Orchestra outdoor concert, at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. [Photo/WeChat account of Xi'an Release]

The annual outdoor concert has become an unparalleled brand in the country, compared by some to the Vienna New Year's Concert and the Vienna Schönbrunn Palace Summer Night Concert.

The iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and the outdoor concert are widely said to perfectly complement each other, establishing the outdoor music event as a world-class production – based on its repertoire, guest performers and audience engagement.

When celebrated international pianists Lang Lang and Gina Alice made their appearance as guest performers, the entire audience rose up – offering waves of applause and cheers that seemed unending.

The performance was livestreamed and netizens from over a hundred cities across the country marked their cities' coordinates on livestreaming platforms, listening to the music and flooding the screen with blessings for their motherland while cheering Xi'an on.

Glittering night: The XSO outdoor concert always attracts a great, excited audience. [Photo/WeChat account of Xi'an Release]