1 . Guy Noble, one of Australia’s most famous conductors, who conducted the touring concert “East Meets West”, said he’d like to learn more about Chinese music. “I’m impressed by the history and the beauty Chinese music has,” he’s said in an interview recently.

“East Meets West” concert tour in Australia was resumed this year after being postponed twice due to the pandemic. It was hosted in Canberra last Saturday, bringing audiences some well-known Chinese and Western pieces such as Jasmine Flower, Carmen, Romeo and Juliet, and The Yellow River.

While it was called “East Meets West”, music from China and the West with the same themes was brought together. Chinese singer Ya Fen and Australian singer Victoria Lambourn performed a duet (二重唱) Hope Betrayed, which was inspired by the Chinese classic novel A Dream of Red Mansions. Noble said he loved the duet as it showed completely different singing styles: traditional Chinese opera style and Western opera style. “They’re not exactly the same, but they came together,” he said.

Having been a professional conductor for more than 20 years, Noble called music an international language. He noted that most music at the concert was about love, which was also an international language. He also spoke highly of some Chinese musicians, such as pianist Lang Lang who he thought has inspired many kids in China to learn music.

Noble admitted his knowledge of Chinese culture was limited. He said that conducting the Canberra concert was “an experience that I’ve enjoyed”, which made him more interested in discovering the background and history of the music, as well as the stories behind it. Noble is ready to create more things that can involve dance or calligraphy or some of the other aspects of Chinese culture, and put them together with music.

1. What does the underlined word “resumed” in paragraph 2 mean?

A．Restarted.	B．Expanded.
C．Paused.	D．Concluded.

2. Why did Noble enjoy Hope Betrayed?

A．Because it impressed him with its history.

B．Because it was inspired by a classic novel.

C．Because it showed two performing styles.

D．Because it was performed by an Australian.

3. What can we learn about Noble from the text?

A．He is an amateur conductor.

B．He speaks highly of all Chinese musicians.

C．He has a wide knowledge of Chinese culture.

D．He intends to integrate more Chinese elements into music.

4. Which of the following could be the best title for the text?

A．Guy Noble: A Famous Australian Conductor

B．An Australian’s Passion for Chinese Culture

C．Music: A Bridge to Understanding Each Other

D．The Cooperation Between Foreign Musicians

2 . As Christmas Eve approached, I found myself in New York City, far from my family and friends in Taiwan. I was feeling homesick and lonely, but my Jewish friend, Rachel, who, like me, doesn’t get connected with Christmas due to any religious things, invited me to join her for a dinner in a Chinese restaurant. She explained that it was a tradition for many Jewish people to celebrate this holiday by eating Chinese food on Christmas Eve.

We went to Jing Fong, a fancy restaurant in Chinatown. The place was packed with people, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. We ordered a variety of dishes. Everything was delicious, and I felt grateful to be sharing this experience with Rachel. As we ate, we talked about our families and our cultures. We laughed and joked, and for a moment, I forgot about my homesickness.

A moment later, a group of carolers (唱圣诞歌的人) came into the restaurant, singing Christmas songs. At first, I was puzzled. Why were they singing in a Chinese restaurant? But then I realized that this was part of the magic of New York City. People from all different cultures and backgrounds could come together and celebrate the holidays in their own way. Rachel and I joined in the singing, and soon the whole restaurant was filled with music. It was a beautiful moment, and I felt blessed to be part of it.

What a night! I learned that even when you’re far from home, you can still find joy and connection with others. Rachel and I may come from different cultures, but we shared amazing food, joyful music, and most importantly heartfelt company. And that’s exactly what all the holidays are all about.

1. Why did Rachel invite the author to join her for dinner?

A．To show respect to God

B．To celebrate Christmas in the Jewish way

C．To share stories about their families

D．To forget about their homesickness

2. What was the author’s initial reaction to the carolers?

A．Fearful	B．Joyful
C．Disappointed	D．Confused

3. How did the author want people to approach Christmas?

A．By focusing on religious traditions

B．By celebrating with family and friends

C．By enjoying a variety of festive dishes

D．By embracing diverse ways of celebration

4. Where is the text most probably taken from?

A．A personal blog	B．A commercial promotion brochure
C．A travel guide of New York	D．An academic article

4 . Students’ Journey to Empower Rural Heritage

From Aug. 18 to 22 a team of 15 Tsinghua University students, representing diverse backgrounds from China, South Korea, Malaysia, and Indonesia, set foot on an overseas research exploration focusing on rural revitalization(振兴) in Indonesian villages, particularly within Nusa Tenggara Barat(NTB).

With the diverse cultural heritage, Indonesia is home to over 83,000 villages, each radiating its own charm and character.     1    

The research mission took the students to Sukarara and Sade villages, two of NTB’s tourist destinations.     2    Sukarara and Sade are a world apart from the busy cities to which most of us are accustomed. The villages are a living test to Indonesia’s rich culture and its devotion to preserving traditions. The Revitalizing these villages goes beyond mere economic development.     3    The weaving skills and architectural techniques of Sukarara and Sade villages are not only beautiful, but they are also an inseparable part to the identity of these communities. It’s essential that they strike a balance between progress and preservation.

As the journey came to an end, the students carry with them not only the memories of their experiences there, but also the responsibility to make a positive impact on these remarkable places.     4    They are optimistic that Indonesian villages can experience meaningful development, ultimately leading to increased opportunities for employment and an improved quality of life.

A．While these villages possess undeniable fascination, many remain underdeveloped.

B．This effort includes the knowledge exchange between the students and local villagers

C．Both were selected for revitalization efforts led by the Village Revitalization Team.

D．In Sukarara, a local tradition requires girls master weaving skills before marriage

E．They decide to be a bridge between tradition and progress, united for their growth

F．It’s about preserving the cultural heritage and ensuring traditions being passed down

5 . You’ve heard the phrase “home for the holidays”, but I would like to introduce a new phrase: hygge for the holidays. A hygge holiday is all about peaceful, quiet and cozy(温暖舒适的) surroundings. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? Holiday hygge is easy and comforting. Most people are already doing at least some of these simple hygge holidays without even knowing it.

Hygge is a Danish word originally coming from an old Norwegian word meaning well-being and protection from the outside harm. It’s known that winters in Denmark are severe and last long. The concept of hygge has been used by Danish people to keep themselves mentally positive in the dark winter season and fill their homes with comfort and love.

Hygge is a very important word to Danish people, often used to describe what their culture is all about and it is not necessarily a thing, something you can buy, but rather more of something you feel. Hygge really is a reflection of one aspect of Danish living, and, happily, in the last five years the concept of hygge has made its way to the US and many other countries. I mean what’s not to like about nurturing(培育)peace and quiet and coziness?

Here are some more descriptive words for hygge: comfort, familiarity, friendship, laughter, and even seasonal homemade food and drinks. While it is possible to achieve hygge any time of the year with hygge activities-an outdoor BBQ with friends and a movie under the stars with family are good examples of summertime hygge, it is most commonly associated with the colder months because of its ability to lift one’s spirits during dark winter months.

Hygge is the most suitable for the November and December holiday season because it’s all about peaceful and cozy surroundings that fill you with contentment. There is indeed something you can do to bring holiday hygge into your home this season.

1. Why do Danish people choose a hygge holiday?

A．To deal with cold and long winters.	B．To follow the latest holiday trend.
C．To fight against nature physically.	D．To spend more time with their family.

2. How does the author find hygge?

A．It reflects Danish living totally.	B．It is mainly about some feeling.
C．It is limited to Denmark and the US.	D．It represents ancient Danish culture

3. What message is conveyed in paragraph 4?

A．People do hygge in more ways.	B．Hygge is preferred in summertime.
C．Hygge is still perfect for winter.	D．People access hygge in certain time.

4. What might the author go on to talk about?

A．Ways of hygge celebrations.	B．Tips on achieving hygge.
C．Different opinions about hygge	D．Benefits of bringing hygge into home.

6 . Out- of- hours: an introduction to China

200ct 2022-17 Dec 2022

Journey through the extraordinary cultures of China in this special guided tour before the Museum opens to the public.

In the Sir Joseph Hotung Gallery of China, you will gain an insight into the development of Chinese history and culture from 5000 BC to the present day.

In a beautifully refurnished space which has recently re-opened, this introductory tour will give you a deep appreciation for the magnificent objects on display featuring Tang dynasty tomb figures buried around AD 728 and beautiful Ming dynasty blue-and-white porcelain (瓷器).

Gallery on this tour:

• Room 33: China (Sir Joseph Hotung Gallery)

Booking information

• The tour will begin at 9:00 and will last for 60 minutes.

• Please meet at the Main entrance on Great Russell Street (WC1B 3DG) at 8:50 with your email confirmation.

• This tour is limited to a maximum of 20 places per session. If you would like to bring a group of 10 or more people or arrange a special out-of-hours tour, please email traveltradebookings@britishmuseum.org to discuss your options.

• To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, face coverings are required for the protection of yourself and others. Please be considerate of people and exercise social distancing where you can — especially in smaller spaces. Hand sanitizer (洗手液) stations can be found throughout the Museum and we recommend washing your hands regularly.

• All measures are subject to change in accordance with government guidelines (Opens in new window) and Museum regulations. Further information can be found in our FAQs section.

Meeting point:

Main entrance — Great Russell Street (WC1B 3DG)

Price:

• £33

• £16 (Ages 5-15 years)

• Free tor under 5s and disabled visitors’ assistant (no booking required)

1. What is the characteristic of the exhibition?

A．You will gain an insight into Chinese history.

B．You will have to follow government guidelines.

C．You can arrange a special out-of-hours tour.

D．You can appreciate relics of Tang/Ming dynasty.

2. If Dad, Mum and two kids aged 4 and 16 visit the exhibition, how much should they pay for admission fees?

A．£99.

B．£82.

C．£132.

D．£66.

3. What does a class of 20 Chinese students need to do if they want to visit the exhibition together?

A．Prepay the admission fees.	B．Meet at the Main entrance at 9:00.
C．Schedule their visit on weekdays.	D．Email to discuss in advance.

7 . Four European Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss in 2023

Berck-sur-Mer Kite Festival

For over two decades,more than half a million visitors have come to watch the splendid display of kites flying over the seaside town of Berck-sur-Mer. Taking place every March or April,the festival sees giant dragons, whales, and various cartoon characters in the skies over the sandy beach. The festival also plays host to the International Kite Championships of the World every two years. During this time, experts from all over the world compete against the wind and each other.

Cannes Film Festival

Film lovers will no doubt want to head to the world’s most famous movie festival, the Cannes Film Festival. The red-carpet event was created by a French Minister of Education and Fine Arts. He wanted to establish an international cultural event in France to rival(与……抗衡)the Venice Film Festival. And it’s safe to say, he succeeded. More than 30, 000 professionals, such as directors, actors and actresses from all over the world attend the annual festival.

Menton Lemon Festival

Held over two weeks in February, the Lemon Festival celebrates all things concerning lemons in the city of Menton. More than 200. 000 visitors come to watch the colorful floats(花车)and sculptures created from lemons and oranges. During the daytime, parades of fruit-covered floats make their way through the streets as wind musicians and drummers entertain the crowd.

Nice Carnival

Taking place every February, the famous Nice Carnival is one of the largest carnivals in the world. It is also the most important event on the French Riviera. Over a million people take to the streets of Nice during the day and night. More than 1, 000 dancers and musicians from around the world perform at the magnificent carnival.
1. What is Berck-sur-Mer famous for?

A．Kites.

B．Beaches.

C．Whales.

D．Cartoons.

2. Who created the Cannes Film Festival?

A．A director.

B．An actor.

C．A French artist.

D．A French official.

3. What do the Menton Lemon Festival and the Nice Carnival have in common?

A．Both feature folk songs.	B．Both are held in February.
C．Both attract people at night.	D．Both have high sculptures.

9 . The Rise of “China-chic”

Over past years, guochao, or “China-chic” has been gaining popularity among Chinese consumers. Guochao conveys the cultural heritage and values of China.     1    . “China-chic” is rising, but what is it?

The idea of guochao was first borrowed from some international brands, and began to win over Chinese consumers in 2015.     2    . In 2018, Chinese sportswear band Li-Ning presented its Wu Dao (the principles of Taoism) collection at the New York Fashion Week. It featured bright red color and Chinese characters. More brands have since followed, heralding (预示) the early period of guochao.

    3    . This was a period when applications of big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things, and 5G technology hit the market one after another. Domestic tech companies such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and DJI made headlines.

In its third stage, guochao became more common in everyday life. Over the past decade, guochao has expanded from consumer goods to experiential products. As consumers are showing greater interest in cultural identity and creativity, productions like the TV program National Treasure, and the dance show Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace integrate cultural and historical elements with the latest audio-visual technologies.     4    .

Nowadays, guochao is moving to the next stage. No matter how the trend evolves, Chinese people’s positive attitude toward the country’s development and their recognition of and growing confidence in national culture won’t change.     5    . Seen from a broader perspective, guochao mirrors the rise of China, a country eager to make its presence felt globally. Guochao is a style, but more importantly, it transmits culture and values.

A．The trend grew in the following years

B．They give the viewers a totally new experience

C．The next stage saw the rise of China’s native fashion trends

D．It also expresses national pride and confidence in a new era

E．The second period of guochao mainly features hi-tech sectors

F．Its success will rely first and foremost on gaining cultural confidence

G．The concept of “Made in China” was recognized as the representation of Chinese culture