International students of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music (SCM) at the Shanghai Symphony Hall on June 20.

More than 400 guests, including some international students from other local universities, were in attendance to watch as musical maestros gave group and solo performances of a harmonious mix of classic Chinese and western melodies.

The highlight of the gala was an ensemble performance which celebrated the musical culture of the ancient Silk Road. It was the first time for students to perform the piece in public.

The gala was widely regarded as a success, bringing out the very best in both Chinese and western cultures, and symbolizing a musical bridge connecting the two.