A city comes alive with the sound of music

Playing a leading role

A preview of the documentary and a visit to the Harbin Schoenfeld Children's Arts Society were among this year's World Federation of International Music Competitions' activities. With panel discussions and roundtables between June 25 and 29, this year marks the first time that the federation held its general assembly in a Chinese city.

The organization, founded in 1957 in Geneva, Switzerland, is a member of the International Music Council, an official partner of UNESCO. Its members include more than 120 international major music competitions from 112 cities of 39 countries.

The Schoenfeld competition joined the federation as a member in 2017, and in 2019, it was granted the hosting rights of the general assembly through an internal vote, according to Xue.

He adds that to select Harbin as the host city for this year's general assembly reflects the organization's trust in both the competition and the city itself, recognizing Harbin's strong cultural infrastructure, such as theaters and concert halls, and its ability to play a leading role in cultural exchanges.

"The global exposure of this year's general assembly will further enhance Harbin's international influence as a music city. For Harbin, this is not just a brief cultural celebration, but a pivotal moment in the city's musical and cultural development," he adds.

The event brought together experts from leading international music competitions and institutions to discuss key topics in today's classical music landscape. Sessions explored the role of music-related events in facilitating cross-cultural dialogue and mutual learning, the latest music education methodologies, particularly in China, and the impact of technological advance on the music industry.

"It is very meaningful to have an international conference, especially here in Harbin, in this city with many cultural influences, and bring people together through music, something all of us love and relate to. Music is a medium that brings us together," says Florian Riem, secretary general of the federation.

"I think in these times, meeting each other, coming from different backgrounds, is more important than ever, because meeting means listening and learning. Music and musicians can teach the world that listening is sometimes more important than talking."

Both the federation and the Harbin representatives, including Xue and local officials, have expressed hope to further collaborations, enhance mutual learning and foster international exchanges in music and culture.

For Xue, it is an honor in serving as a cultural ambassador, bridging China's music scene with one of the world's most esteemed music alliances, linking Harbin's history with cutting-edge music development, and providing local talents with opportunities for international exposure.

"To allow the world's finest music, including that of China and especially Harbin, to resound more freely and powerfully, and to provide talented young people, regardless of their background, with more opportunities to reach the international stage — this general assembly is such an important milestone and bridge, built on commitment, professionalism, and Harbin's cultural depth," Xue says.