Perfecting percussion: More than 6,000 people with various abilities have taken part in the rehearsal for "Beat the Drum for Inclusion".

More than 6,000 people with various abilities have taken part in the rehearsal for "Beat the Drum for Inclusion", the most extensive outdoor event of the International Festival of Inclusive Arts, at Queen Elizabeth Stadium today.

Coming from 18 districts, the commercial and education sectors, and professional and charitable organisations, the participants brought along self-styled musical instruments.

Jointly run by the Health, Welfare & Food Bureau and the Arts with the Disabled Association, the International Festival of Inclusive Arts will open on December 2.

At the opening event, "Beat the Drum for Inclusion", more than 11,000 participants with various abilities will gather on both sides of Victoria Harbour and each will play a percussion instrument made of everyday utensils.

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, under the baton of Artistic Director Yan Huichang, will lead the musicians in a Chinese percussion piece, "The Earth Shall Move" - and attempt to make a Guinness World Record.