China to open new performing arts center

BEIJING, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. soprano Kathleen Battle and Chinese pianist Lang Lang have agreed to perform at the opening of China's National Centre for the Performing Arts.

The classical music stars, along with Russian violinist Vadim Repin, are slated to take part in New Year's Eve and New Year's Day galas at the new performing arts center in Beijing.

They are expected to appear with China's National Symphony Orchestra, which will be led by celebrated Japanese conductor Seiji Ozawa, the director of the Vienna State Opera, the center said in a news release.