Canales performs alongside a Chinese artists at the concert. [Photo/WeChat account of XMFAO]

The century-old courtyard of Yanping Theater on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen came alive in a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese musical instruments melodies, while the delicate aroma of tea created a captivating scene on July 14.

As a flagship event of the 6th Gulangyu Music Festival, this courtyard concert not only breathed new life into the historic architecture but also immersed visitors in a symphony where past and present beautifully converged.

In the courtyard, the melodious tune of The Waves of Gulangyu rose first, marking the beginning of the performance. The crisp tones of the guzheng solo Courtyard Full of Fragrance seemed evoked bustling marketplace scenes from a century ago, while the romantic melody of the violin-cello duet June Barcarolle gently brought the audience back to the present artistic feast.

The finale featured American mezzo-soprano Carla Dirlikov Canales, who set the courtyard ablaze with iconic Carmen — her resonant voice penetrating every corner of the historic theater.

After the performance, holding a freshly brewed cup of Minna kungfu tea, Canales marveled: "This is the most enchanting venue I've ever seen — where historical grandeur and musical vitality merge perfectly. Every brick and tile of Gulangyu seems to sing, utterly captivating me."

She particularly noted that performing in this century-old structure allowed her to feel not just the audience's applause, but also a profound cultural resonance transcending time.