Known for its beautiful beaches and historic German architecture, the city of Qingdao is also a hub for the arts in China. Last week, students and faculty from The Tianjin Juilliard School traveled there to perform at the Qingdao Concert Hall and the Qingdao Art Museum as well as to provide educational experiences in the local music community. The performers presented two concerts, with works ranging from staples of the canon to innovative new works. In the first concert at the Qingdao Art Museum on August 12, a group of students and alumni presented a performance of chamber music featuring works by Mozart, Joseph Turrin, Haydn, Reinecke, and Brahms.
The second concert, presented at the Qingdao Concert Hall on August 14, featured chamber music works performed by resident faculty members Mingjia Liu, Chang Chou Han, Weigang Li, alumni, and students. Faculty and students played side-by-side in many of the pieces. The program included works by Mozart, Caroline Shaw, Rosetti, and Vaughn Williams.
Additionally, there were learning opportunities for young artists in Qingdao, in the form of masterclasses across different venues and an afternoon tea and music session at the historic Rotes Haus (Music and Home), in which resident faculty members fielded questions from aspiring musicians and their parents about practice tips, careers in music, and the unique educational opportunities offered by The Tianjin Juilliard School.
The concert series in Qingdao was an excellent platform for collaboration and learning. Outside of the performances, students had some free time to socialize and visit local points of interest, from quaint seaside cafes to the Haitian Center Complex Observation Deck.
Photos courtesy of the Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Shinan District, Qingdao.