Some of the most talented Jewish musicians joined the symphony orchestra shortly after they arrived in Shanghai and helped train many talented Chinese musicians such as Sang Tong and Ding Shande, who later became big names in China.

All the musicians involved in Emigre agree that the production not only records a piece of history, but is also of special significance in today's world.

"The Jewish and Chinese overcoming those hard times reflects the inclusion that crosses cultural borders, races and religions. Today's world needs more understanding and inclusion," says Yu, referring to the ongoing conflicts of values in the post-pandemic world.

Gary Ginstling, president and CEO of the New York Philharmonic, says he believes the new oratorio will resonate with audiences.

"The world is one big house. I think that the writers being able to write such an amazing story with so few words tells us the power of this story. It celebrates people of Shanghai who were so great," he says.

The cast for the November premiere will feature Ben Bliss and Arnold Livingston Geis as the two brothers, as well as Shen Yang, Zhang Meigui, Andrew Dwan, Zhu Huiling and Diana Newman. The same cast will be performing in New York, where Yu will be conducting the New York Philharmonic.

The recording of the oratorio, which will be done by Deutsche Grammophon, is expected to be released in February next year.

The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra will perform the oratorio at the 2024 Beijing International Music Festival, while the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin will perform the work in 2024. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra will then perform the work in 2025.

The schedule for international performances in countries including the United Kingdom will be announced in the near future.

Wu Zongfang contributed to this story.

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