Opera stars hit a high note to lift spirits

Opera singers from China and Italy have recorded a song, Together, which will be released on Chinese social media platforms. While the world is struggling with the coronavirus outbreak, the song delivers a message of love, hope and healing.

The song, adapted by Chinese composer Ma Jiuyue, is based on two famous songs from China and Italy: Chinese folk song Jasmine Flower and Nessun Dorma (None Shall Sleep), an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini's opera Turandot.

"We've seen videos of quarantined Italian people sing from balconies to lift spirits on the internet, which is very encouraging and inspiring," says Ma."Though China and Italy are geographically far apart, we are close to each other with music. With this song, Together, we want people from all over the world to feel united during this difficult time. The viral outbreak is now a global issue. We need to help each other."

Jasmine Flower and Nessun Dorma, are popular among both Chinese and Italian people, Ma says. He adds that 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Italy and the song is dedicated to the friendship of the two countries. The music video of the song, directed by Zheng Hao, features iconic places in China and Italy, as well as showing people from all walks of life in the two countries fighting against COVID-19.