The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra has successfully concluded its 2025 Spring Tour under the baton of Zubin Mehta, with acclaimed violinist Clara-Jumi Kang as soloist. Spanning major concert halls in China and Europe, the tour was marked by standing ovations and enthusiastic receptions at each venue.

This was the first time in the orchestra’s history that a tour was led by a conductor other than its co-founder, Maestro Daniel Barenboim. Maestro Barenboim, who remains deeply committed to the Divan, was present for the rehearsals at the Barenboim-Said Akademie in Berlin in February, working closely with the musicians and his longtime friend, Zubin Mehta. Reflecting on this collaboration, Barenboim stated: “I am thrilled that Zubin has agreed to join the Divan on this special tour. He is one of my most trusted friends and admired colleagues, and I consider the Divan my most important responsibility. To see Zubin and the Divan making music together is just thrilling for me.”

The orchestra’s journey began in China’s most prestigious concert venues, including the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, Suzhou Bay Grand Theatre, Shenzhen Concert Hall, and Guangzhou Xinghai Concert Hall. The European leg brought performances to celebrated landmarks such as the Wiener Konzerthaus, Geneva’s Victoria Hall, and Müpa Budapest, where the final concert was livestreamed worldwide as part of Müpa Budapest’s webcast series.

Looking ahead, the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra will return for its Summer 2025 Tour, with Daniel Barenboim once again taking the podium. He will be joined by renowned pianist Lang Lang, who previously performed with the orchestra in 2022. Further details will be announced in due course.