When Katy Perry cries in Beijing

US superstar Katy Perry performs for the first time in China at the 2014 Infiniti China Brand Festival in Beijing. Provided to China Daily

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On a recent Sunday afternoon, the pop superstar attended a rehearsal of the China National Orchestra, the country's leading traditional folk music performance group, in Beijing.

When more than 90 Chinese musicians from the orchestra played her hit song, Roar, with ancient Chinese instruments like the guzheng (Chinese plucked zither), erhu (two-stringed bowed instrument) and pipa (four-stringed plucked instrument), she sat at the back of the theater, wiping her tears.

"I have never heard such beautiful music. It's very spiritual. I am so touched," she said onstage to the orchestra's musicians. "This experience is definitely a highlight of my trip to China."

She also showed great interest in the other piece played by the orchestra, Silk Road, during the rehearsal.

Perry, known for her bubbly, fun-loving hits, such as Teenage Dream and Firework, was dressed in a light green cheongsam, accompanied by a pair of high boots.

She says she has always been very interested in Chinese culture.

"I bought this dress a long time ago but I didn't find a proper occasion to wear it. I love the color and design. I think this is the perfect time for me to put it on during my very first trip to China," she said.

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