Team of classical musicians roared on by 20,000 soccer fans

The musicians explored Rongjiang during their stay, sampling the local food, listening to folk music, and absorbing the rich tapestry of cultural traditions.

Team captain Yuan was born and raised in Guiyang, capital of Guizhou. He said the trip to Rongjiang was a chance to return to his roots.

"I had watched cun chao games through social media platforms, but experiencing it in person was a completely different experience," he said. "The atmosphere was fantastic, and the soccer field became a stage for a cultural exchange that was both exhilarating and heartwarming."

The team's striker, pianist Yang Fangsui, was a standout performer during the game with his agility and quick reflexes proving a handful for the opposition defenders.

He was also born in Guiyang and loved playing soccer as a child. "Though we are all amateur soccer players, we treated the match seriously, mapping out strategies in our preparation," Yang said.

Soccer's appeal lies in its easy-to-understand rules, and its accessibility to people of all ages and skill levels, he said.

"All you need is a ball and an open space to play. Its universal appeal helps foster a sense of global community, as fans from diverse cultures connect through their shared passion for the sport," he said.

"Music is also enjoyed by people around the world, which creates a sense of belonging and shared experience. Soccer stars often become global icons and role models, and so do musicians."

Yang also saw comparisons between the spectator feedback soccer players and musicians who play live receive.

"The more excited or aroused you get for a performance, the better you will perform. When we played in the match, there were about 20,000 spectators — way more than any audience we have in concert halls. The air was abuzz with anticipation and excitement, which we had never had before," said Yang.

The trip was also a personal journey for him to explore his home province's stunning landscapes and rich ethnic traditions, which added a layer of significance to the visit.

Yang said as a key cultural hub in southwestern China, Guizhou is rich in musical traditions and ethnic diversity, which provided a deeper context for the musicians' mission.