Taiwanese String Orchestra Performs in Vatican, Invited for Encore by Pope Leo XIV

(CNA, Taipei, by reporter Yang Yao-ju, June 18) Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung stated on social media today that the "St. Cecilia United String Orchestra" from the Catholic Diocese of Taichung performed in the Vatican and attended a public audience with Pope Leo XIV, where they played songs like "Tien O O" and received a greeting from the Pope, who invited them for an encore on the spot.

Lin posted on Facebook that he received footage from Ambassador to the Holy See Matthew S.M. Lee in the morning, learning that the "St. Cecilia United String Orchestra" from the Catholic Diocese of Taichung had participated in a public audience with Pope Leo XIV on the 17th local time. The night before, they were invited to perform at the Pontifical International Marian Academy, letting Taiwan's melodious music resonate in the Vatican.

Lin pointed out that in the video sent back from the embassy, one could hear the orchestra performing popular tunes like "Tien O O" and "The Moon Represents My Heart." The familiar Taiwanese melodies resounding in the Vatican made one feel the infectious power of culture transcending language and distance.

Lin said that during his address, Pope Leo XIV specifically greeted the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra from Taiwan. During the group photo, besides encouraging and thanking the orchestra for their wonderful performance, he also invited them to perform an additional piece on the spot.

Lin mentioned that the orchestra's performance in the Vatican was part of the "Taiwan Culture in Europe 2026" series of events promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He believes the most precious part of cultural exchange is the dissemination and interaction through media like music, drama, and art, which also allows more friends to get to know Taiwan.

Lin stated that the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra originated from the Shalu Catholic Church in Taichung and was established with the encouragement of American Maryknoll priest Fr. Kurt Joseph Anderson. Fr. Anderson has dedicated over 50 years to Taiwan, and in 2018, the government awarded him a Republic of China ID card to recognize his long-term service. At that time, Lin was the mayor of Taichung and had city staff deliver the ID card to the Shalu Catholic Church, welcoming Fr. Anderson as a citizen of Taichung.

Lin thanked Ambassador Lee and the diplomatic staff for their arrangements, as well as Fr. Anderson and all members of the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra for their efforts and dedication. He said, "I believe many people who see this will feel the same warmth and pride as I do," as Taiwan's music leaves a warm and profound memory in the Holy See.