Shougang Group, one of the largest steel giants in China, has agreed to be a patron for the financially strapped Central Nationalities Orchestra.
An agreement to this effect was signed Wednesday, in the presence of Minister of Culture Sun Jiazheng.
Under the pact, Shougang Group, also known as the Capital Steel Group, will give the orchestra three million yuan annually, beginning this year.
The orchestra plans to use the money to compose new works for its own use, conduct structural reform to turn itself into a commercial troupe, and train and reward its talented members.