Picture this: the iconic Edinburgh skyline meets the soulful sounds of the erhu. 🎻 “Elegance and Charm of Shanghai” kicked off the 2025 China-Britain Culture and Art Festival in grand style at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre, right in the heart of the Fringe. 🌍
Brought to life by the Asian Association of Culture Commerce and Education in Europe, the concert drew nearly a thousand guests, including Donald Wilson, former Lord Provost of Edinburgh. Together, they witnessed history in the making.
For the first time, the erhu took center stage in a dedicated concert, performed by a full ensemble of top-level musicians. The haunting melodies and sweeping rhythms transported the crowd straight to the bustling streets of Shanghai.
“Our traditional music has its own language. Much of it can’t be taught, only felt. When you’re truly immersed, you begin to understand the spirit of the Chinese people,” said Professor Wang Yongde from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.
The show was a generational celebration: three generations of erhu players showcased a wide range of styles, honoring the past while tuning into the future. It’s all about passing on a rich cultural legacy to the next wave of music lovers.
Adding a Scottish twist, students from the Brenda Ronnie School of Dance opened the evening with a lively Highland dance. 🏴 Their joyful rhythms set the mood and highlighted the magic of cultural exchange.
For many in the audience—especially younger fans—it was their first encounter with Chinese traditional instruments. The blend of Shanghai’s melodies and Scotland’s traditions made for a truly unforgettable experience.
“Elegance and Charm of Shanghai” proved that music transcends borders, building bridges and celebrating our shared humanity in every note. ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
