Since then, The Philadelphia Orchestra's cooperation with the Chinese counterparts has been flourishing.

This May, it wrapped up its 12th tour to China, which was also aimed at marking the four-decade milestone in U.S.-China diplomatic relations.

Booth, one of only four members of the 1973 trip who remain in the orchestra, said he was glad that "the musical world between the United States and China has become more and more strongly united," and he expects both sides to forge ahead the ties.

After so many years of interactions with Chinese counterparts and audience, "now China has literally become part of us."

The experienced violinist, who has developed a strong interest in Chinese culture since early childhood, said he felt honored to have taken part in the historic visit some 46 years ago.

"It's one of the most important, most incredible experiences of my life, and it still remains that way," he said, adding it was "an incredible amount of good luck," as he was still a freshman at the orchestra and had the opportunity to participate in the remarkable cultural mission to China.

While the 1973 trip was significant "on several different levels: historically, musically and diplomatically," Booth said, for him, it was also "two weeks of discovery" about the time-honored Asian country.

"I still have this sense of awe and wonder when I go there, walk down the small alleys and see the buildings and temples that can trace back to thousands of years," said the longtime fan of Chinese history and culture.

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