Traditional arts enter the digital spotlight

When it comes to traditional Chinese music, many still picture elderly performers serenely playing the pipa (a four-stringed Chinese lute) or the guqin (a traditional Chinese zither) in tranquil concert halls. But today's musicians are presenting their work in new and exciting ways that engage audiences like never before.

Since 2022, the China National Traditional Orchestra has been streaming shows online, with musicians delivering creative performances in unconventional settings — far removed from traditional concert halls.

"Traditional Chinese music can be both pioneering and creative, even though our instruments date back hundreds or even thousands of years," says Tang Feng, president of the China National Traditional Orchestra and a veteran erhu (a two-stringed fiddle) player. "We always want to introduce these amazing instruments and our music to audiences, especially the younger generation."

The success of these performances wasn't just in the numbers — it was in the experience. Viewers from all over the country now had the chance to experience the magic of live art in a way that felt far more intimate and personal than ever before. The online shows allowed performers to engage directly with their audiences, with real-time feedback and interactive features that transformed the digital space into a vibrant, dynamic community.

Beyond performances, the China National Traditional Orchestra also launched a public welfare livestream program called "Music Classes in the Mountains" in 2022. It has since established 22 charity classrooms in Guizhou province. Every Tuesday morning, artists go live, bringing the joy of music to some of China's most remote areas.

"Through these diverse and vibrant cultural livestreams, people living in these remote areas can enjoy music without ever leaving their homes," Tang explains. "This initiative makes the pursuit of art a tangible reality for them, infusing their daily lives with artistic flavor and cultural sophistication."

As Douyin's vice-president Li Sanqiu puts it, "We're proud to be part of this cultural revolution, helping art troupes and artists reach audiences far beyond the limitations of physical space. It's a bridge across mountains and seas, bringing the beauty of our cultural heritage into the digital age."