Under the baton of conductor Tan Lihua, Beijing Symphony Orchestra will stage a concert on Dec 31 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, celebrating the new year.

Western and Chinese pieces will be performed, including Ode to the Red Flag by Chinese composer Lyu Qiming, Symphony No 5, Op 67 by Beethoven and Symphony No 9, Op 95 by Antonin Dvorak.

Since 1996, Beijing Symphony Orchestra has been performing at the venue every year for the new year. According to Jia Ding, artistic director of the annual event, the concert is more than bringing music to the public — having a special moment at the iconic venue.

"People celebrate the new year in different ways and each tradition carries a unique significance. For people in Beijing, attending the new year concert at the iconic venue has become a unique way of saying goodbye to the past year and welcoming the new year," said Jia during the news conference in Beijing on Wednesday.

"Many people come to the concert with their families and friends. The concert provides them with an opportunity to create beautiful memories together."

Zhang Shurong has been participating in the new year concert arrangement since 1996. He said it was not a new concept for Chinese audiences then because the new year concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the Golden Hall of the Musikverein had been broadcast on China's television for years.

"People came to the concert in 1996 not only for the music but also to visit the historical venue, which is located on the side of the Tian'anmen Square. Now, with more people in China enjoying classical music, the new year concert has gained a large fan base," he said.

Co-organized by Beijing Performance & Arts Group, the concert will also kick off a new year performance season in Beijing, featuring music, dance, drama and theatrical productions for children. Highlights will include traditional Chinese operas, a production by China's most popular comedy brand, Mahua FunAge, and Swan Lake by performers of Russian State Ballet.