Hallé Orchestra teams up with Manchester Airport

18 September 2012, 11:06 | Updated: 18 September 2012, 12:16

The Hallé Orchestra has partnered with Manchester Airports Group for a tour to China aimed at strengthening links to the north west.

Manchester Airport Group has partnered with The Hallé Orchestra as part of the orchestra's tour to China next month. The link is aimed at strengthening trade and cultural links between the north west and China.

Manchester Airport was recently named as the sister airport to Beijing Capital International Airport and it is hoped that a direct service between the two will be established.

Conductor Sir Mark Elder commented: "This is an important and exciting opportunity for the Hallé, which would not have been possible without the long-term support of our principal sponsor Manchester Airport."

The city is home to third-largest Chinese population in Europe, and it is hoped that a cultural exchange will be encouraged. The partnership is also open to other businesses, who are also being encouraged to visit China with a view to establishing trade links between the two areas.