Singers ready for action on Gala stage

Music fans are in for quite a treat at this year's Spring Gala as established singers from home and abroad are set to sing their hearts out. Let's go behind the scenes to see if they are ready for the big night.

Among the hustle and bustle backstage, one singer is able to find some serenity. Zhang Jie is a famous singer in China, emerging from a talent show back in 2007. His soaring voice has won over many in the country.

Yet this is Zhang's first time to sing at the Spring Festival Gala, the biggest stage in the country. So it's quite natural for him to feel a little nervous. But things seem better with one rehearsal under his belt.

Singer Zhang Jie said, "The lightning is great and the sound system sounds great. Everything has gone smoothly so far. "

Another newcomer to the gala stage is Pop diva Zhang Liangying. She also emerged from a singing competition in 2005 and is renowned for her signature high-pitch voice. Fame has kept her busy.

Singer Zhang Liangying said, "I've been quite busy lately. I just got back from Changchun early in the morning for the rehearsal. And tonight I'm flying to Hong Kong to get my dress for the gala. It's quite a challenge for me."

For her first appearance on the gala stage, Zhang Liangying is getting some help. She will be singing a duet with veteran singer Yang Kun, who's renowned for his husky, heartfelt vocal tones.

Singer Yang Kun said, "It's quite a bold combination because our voices are so different. I think it's worked out well so far and I'm sure our performance will appeal to the audience."

CCTV's Spring Festival Gala is known to virtually every Chinese person across the globe. It is held every year to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New year and is broadcast live to the world on the Lunar New Year's Eve, which falls on Feb. 9th this year. It debuted 30 years ago in 1983 and has now become part of modern China's culture and tradition.