Taking her place

Conductor Zhang Xian and Taiwan violist Huang Hsin-yun at a rehearsal at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing.[Photo provided to China Daily]

"I worked with the China NCPA Orchestra about two years ago in Beijing," Zhang says.

"The young musicians are passionate and open-minded."

She wishes to work with the orchestra in New York during its US tour in the fall.

Zhang says all the pieces for the Saturday concert are well known songs from France, Spain, Italy and the United States.

Zhang is often asked why there aren't more female conductors.

"More women are joining the profession," she says.

"It's a matter of time. Audiences will see them (onstage) in maybe 10 or 15 years. It's not only difficult for female conductors but for any young conductors to be noticed these days."