Macau Orchestra is a classical music ensemble based in Macau, China. The orchestra was founded in 1983 and has since become one of the most prominent orchestras in the region. The ensemble is known for its high-quality performances and its commitment to promoting classical music in Macau and beyond. The founding of Macau Orchestra was a significant moment in the cultural history of Macau. The orchestra was established by a group of local musicians who were passionate about classical music and wanted to create a platform for the performance and promotion of this genre in Macau. The founding members of the orchestra included musicians from a variety of backgrounds, including Chinese, Portuguese, and other nationalities. Over the years, Macau Orchestra has grown in size and reputation. Today, the ensemble is made up of over 80 musicians, including both local and international performers. The orchestra is led by a team of talented conductors, including Lu Jia, who has been the music director and principal conductor since 2011. Macau Orchestra has performed a wide range of classical music repertoire over the years, including works by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Mahler. The ensemble has also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, helping to promote the development of new classical music in the region. One of the highlights of Macau Orchestra's history was its performance at the 1999 Macau Handover Ceremony. This event marked the transfer of sovereignty over Macau from Portugal to China, and Macau Orchestra was chosen to perform at the ceremony as a symbol of the city's cultural heritage. The orchestra performed a selection of classical music pieces, including works by Chinese and Western composers, to an audience of over 4,000 people. Macau Orchestra has also received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2016, the ensemble was awarded the Medal of Merit in Culture by the Macau government in recognition of its contributions to the cultural development of the city. The orchestra has also been praised for its performances at international music festivals, including the Beijing Music Festival and the Hong Kong Arts Festival. In addition to its performances, Macau Orchestra is also committed to promoting classical music education in the region. The ensemble offers a range of educational programs and workshops for young musicians, helping to nurture the next generation of classical music performers and enthusiasts. Overall, Macau Orchestra is a highly respected and influential classical music ensemble in the region. Its commitment to promoting classical music and nurturing young talent has helped to establish Macau as a cultural hub in Asia, and its performances continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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