Maestros, music lovers take on Chinese music challenge

Many music lovers sent their performance videos via the China Cultural Centers in Paris, Luxembourg, Brussels, Singapore and others. It's notable that many of the challenge-takers were teenagers. They began to learn about Chinese music and experienced Chinese traditional culture from a young age.

The guzheng performance by students from the Seattle Guzheng Studio was lively and melodious, lingering in the air with thrumming notes.

Ten-year-old Anaïs Paret is a student of the China Cultural Center in Paris. She showcased her musical talent with a vibrant pipa solo.

Irish boy Matthew Weldon's drum challenge was brisk and dynamic.

Chinese top sheng (a reed-pipe wind instrument) player Nie Yunlei fused two instruments from the East and West. In a duet with his daughter Nie Yuyao, who plays the cello, Nie's sheng harmonized well with the string instrument's soothing sounds.

Guitarist Chen Xi staged a guitar solo. A creative performer experienced in cross-border arts, Chen is a veteran of integrating traditional Chinese instruments into her performances. Her solo won praise on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok. "It's sometimes cheerful and bright, sometimes soft and romantic...There was a strong Chinese flavor in it", internet user Yanhuayileng commented.

The "Play with Me - Chinese Music Challenge" is supported by China International Culture Association and organized by China Daily Website and Chinaculture.org. The month-long event promotes cultural exchanges between China and the rest of the world through music, and shares traditional Chinese culture with people from around the globe.