Cheng Yu

Mid-Autumn & National Day Celebration Performance at Huawei London
2025-09-29 08:00 - 17:00 UTC
Date: Monday, 29 September 2025Venue: Huawei UK, The Shard, LondonPresented by: Huawei UK
On Monday, 29 September 2025, the UK Chinese Music Ensemble was invited to perform at Huawei London, located in The Shard, in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival and China’s National Day.
The ensemble presented a selection of elegant traditional Chinese music, bringing a festive and cultural atmosphere to the occasion. With refined performances on instruments such as the pipa, dizi, ruan, and erhu, the music resonated beautifully against the stunning London skyline — a poetic blend of heritage and modernity.
The event was warmly received by guests, who appreciated this musical celebration of reunion, joy, and shared cultural spirit.

China in Black and White – Lunchtime Concert with Mengqing Nie & London Youlan Qin Society
2025-10-03 08:00 - 17:00
Date: Friday, 3 October 2025Time: 1:15–2:00 PMVenue: Victoria Rooms Auditorium, University of Bristol
On Friday, 3 October 2025, pianist Mengqing Nie, a doctoral researcher at the University of Bristol, will collaborate with Prof Cheng Yu and the other musicians from the London Youlan Qin Society in a special lunchtime concert titled “China in Black and White.”
The performance explores the dialogue between Chinese folk melodies and Western piano traditions, offering a rare encounter between East and West through sound. The programme highlights works from the Cultural Revolution period (1966–1976) — a defining era for Chinese piano transcriptions — while also presenting fresh reinterpretations of traditional Chinese music.
By bringing the expressive voice of Chinese plucked-string instruments into conversation with the piano, the concert creates a unique sound world that blends heritage and innovation, tradition and modernity. Audiences can expect evocative textures and musical storytelling that transcend boundaries of time and culture.

Prof. Cheng Yu Performs at 80th Anniversary Concert of the Victory of the Anti-Fascist War
2025-10-11 08:00 - 17:00
Date: Saturday, 11 October 2025Time: 7:30 PMVenue: St John’s Waterloo, London SE1 8TY
On 11 October 2025, a special commemorative concert marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was held at St John’s Waterloo in London.
Hosted by the London Chinese Philharmonic Choir, the event received strong support from the Chinese Embassy in the UK and members of the Chinese community. The church was filled to capacity, with heartfelt applause echoing throughout an evening of remembrance and musical unity.
The programme featured both Chinese and Western works, highlighted by Xian Xinghai’s monumental Yellow River Cantata (黄河大合唱).Professor Cheng Yu presented a stirring performance of the third movement, “The Yellow River Flows from Heaven” (黄河之水天上来), arranged for pipa, piano, and narration.
This marked Prof. Cheng’s fourth performance of the Yellow River Cantata in the UK, offering audiences a deeply moving interpretation that celebrated the enduring human spirit, resilience, and hope for peace.

London Silk Road Lutes Ensemble Completes Inspiring China Tour Across Beijing and Shanghai
2025-10-17 08:00 - 2025-10-23 17:00
Date: 17–23 October 2025Hosted by: Central Conservatory of Music, Beijing & Shanghai Expo Centre，Music Education Alliance Across the Belt and Road ConferenceSupported by: SOAS University of London & Arts Council England
The London Silk Road Lutes Ensemble, led by acclaimed pipa and guqin player and SOAS professor Cheng Yu, embarked on a significant tour of China in late October, presenting lectures, forums, and performances in Beijing and Shanghai. This marked a milestone in cultural exchange between the UK and China, enriching mutual understanding through dialogue and music.
Part I: Belt and Road Music Education Alliance International Conference – Beijing
Invited by the Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM), the ensemble participated in the 4th Belt and Road Music Education Alliance International Conference, held from 18 to 22 October 2025. Delegates from more than twenty top music institutions worldwide attended a programme of lectures, concerts and masterclasses.
Professor Cheng and her ensemble presented a lecture-performance titled:“The Soundscape of the Silk Road Lutes – A Musical Journey from China to Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.”The presentation explored interconnected musical traditions through live demonstrations on various lutes and plucked instruments from across Eurasia.

Part II: Closing Concert – Shanghai Expo Centre
Following the Beijing engagements, the ensemble travelled to the Shanghai Expo Centre to deliver further lecture-performances as part of the conference’s Shanghai programme. The event brought together more than 3,000 international delegates across arts, education, and cultural sectors.
The London Silk Road Lutes Ensemble was invited to perform in the conference’s closing concert, where they offered a dynamic and culturally rich finale that was met with enthusiastic applause.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to connect with outstanding musicians and scholars from around the world,” said Professor Cheng Yu. “Music builds bridges and opens hearts — and this tour has affirmed that more than ever.”

Looking Ahead: A Continuing Journey of Cultural Exchange
Founded in 2024, the London Silk Road Lutes Ensemble is comprised of professional musicians and students from SOAS University of London. The ensemble has been supported by Arts Council England, and has appeared at notable venues such as the British Museum, Royal Academy of Music, and the London International Chinese Music Festival, gaining recognition for its intercultural and academic approach.

“We look forward to welcoming music lovers from China and beyond to future collaborations in London,” said Professor Cheng. “From the golden autumn in Beijing to the vibrant energy of Shanghai, this tour is only the beginning.”

Special lecture and performance - “Boundless Strings, Resonant Silk Road – The Sound Voyage of Chinese Music.” in Zixia Qin Academy
2025-11-02 08:00 - 17:00
Date: Sunday, 2 November 2025Time: 14:00Venue: Zixia Qin Academy, Dongyong Cultural Park, Dongcheng District, Beijing
On 2 November 2025, the Zixia Qin Academy in Beijing warmly welcomed Professor Cheng Yu of SOAS University of London for an enriching afternoon of music and dialogue titled “Boundless Strings, Resonant Silk Road – The Sound Voyage of Chinese Music.”
As a distinguished pipa and guqin virtuoso, and one of the foremost ambassadors of Chinese music internationally, Prof. Cheng has performed across more than thirty countries, bringing the profound beauty of traditional Chinese instruments to global audiences. She has been hailed by Songlines as a “leading figure in Chinese music in Europe” and has played a vital role in promoting cultural exchange through her scholarship and performance.
This special event combined an insightful lecture with live musical demonstrations, showcasing how Chinese music can transcend borders while retaining its poetic essence.
Programme Highlights:

Moon Rising High (月儿高) – Pipa solo (traditional literary tune adaptation)
Abi cheshme Merghul – Uyghur muqam pipa solo
Üsküdar – Turkish folk melody from the Ottoman period
Wild Geese Descending on the Sandbank (平沙落雁) – Guqin solo
Spiritual Resonance (神人畅) – Guqin solo
Improvisation

The gathering brought together pipa and guqin enthusiasts, scholars, and musicians for a memorable afternoon of music and cultural sharing, celebrating the enduring voice of Chinese instruments along the Silk Road.
Prof. Cheng reflected during her talk:

“Music knows no boundaries. Through the pipa and guqin, we hear echoes of ancient stories, and in their strings, the path of the Silk Road continues to resonate,”

CrossCurrent – A Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary Chinese Chamber Music
2025-11-25 19:00 - 21:00
Cardiff University, 25 November 2025
The UK Chinese Music Ensemble is delighted to be invited to perform at Cardiff University for CrossCurrent, a concert exploring the dialogue between traditional Chinese instrumental music and contemporary chamber compositions.
Taking place on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 at 7:00 PM, the programme will feature a range of works for pipa, guzheng, and Chinese–Western ensemble, including new premieres. The concert celebrates the evolution of Chinese music in the modern world, while honouring its rich heritage.
This event is presented by Cardiff University in collaboration with the Cardiff Confucius Institute.
📍 Venue: Concert Hall, Music Building, Cardiff University🎟 Details and tickets: events.cardiff.ac.uk/view/crosscurrent

NEZHA – A New Hip-Pop Musical
2026-01-08 - 2026-01-09
London Premiere8–9 January 2026The Shaw Theatre, London
Cheng Yu, as the pipa and guqin soloist, is invited to perform in the London premiere of NEZHA, a bold new hip-pop musical inspired by the legendary warrior god of Chinese mythology.
With an electrifying score by Duncan Walsh Atkins and a new book by Teresa Luo and Jennifer Tang, the production blends modern musical theatre, rap, and East Asian storytelling traditions. Traditional Chinese instruments are placed alongside an energetic electric band, creating a striking cross-cultural soundscape.
As the only acoustic instrumentalist within the pop ensemble, Cheng Yu brings the expressive voice of the pipa and guqin into a contemporary theatrical setting, exploring new musical dialogues between tradition and modernity.
“The participation of UK-based pipa soloist Cheng Yu adds a distinctive Eastern musical character to the score. 旅英琵琶演奏家程玉的加入为配乐注入了极具特色的东方韵味。”— People’s Daily 人民网
Performance Times:Thursday 8 January 2026 – 3:00pm & 7:00pmFriday 9 January 2026 – 3:00pm
Venue:The Shaw Theatre100–110 Euston Road, London NW1 2AJ
Language: EnglishRunning Time: 90 minutesAge Suitability: 10+

Silk & Bamboo Duo Lunchtime Concert - University of Brunel
2026-01-30 13:10 - 13:50 | The Beldam, Eastern Gateway Building, Brunel University, The Beldam, Eastern Gateway Building, Brunel University
30 Jan 2026, 13:10 – 13:50
Cheng Yu – pipa and guqin
Zongpu Lu – dizi and xiao bamboo flutes
Cheng Yu will play a lunchtime concert with the talented young wind instruments player Zongpu Lu in Brunel, University of London.
They will be performing a set of traditional and modern Chinese music, including solos and duets in various forms such as the guqin and xiao, pipa and pipa with the dizi flute, and hulusi.
📍 Venue: The Beldam, Eastern Gateway Building, Brunel University🎟 Details and tickets: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brunel-arts-lunchtime-concert-silk-bamboo-duo-tickets-1977607180312?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
(If you are unable to book online, you are welcome to try your luck as a walk-in on the day, although seating will be limited.)
If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to watch the live stream here:
https://www.brunel.ac.uk/life/get-involved/brunel-arts/Concerts-and-performances

‘The Icebreakers’ Chinese New Year Celebration 2026 To celebrate the Year of the Horse
2026-02-06 18:00 - 21:00
‘The Icebreakers’ Chinese New Year Celebration 2026
To celebrate the Year of the Horse
18:00 – 22:30
Cheng Yu has been invited to perform at the prestigious Icebreakers Chinese New Year Celebration 2026, the flagship annual celebration of UK–China relations, jointly hosted by The 48 Group, CCCUK, and CBBC.
Held in the Ballroom at The Dorchester, the event brings together senior leaders from business, government, and the diplomatic community to celebrate the Year of the Horse.
The Dorchester, London, 53 Park Ln, London W1K 1QA
Bookings: events@48group.co.uk
W: https://www.48group.co.uk/

Lunar New Year Concert 2026 - University of Birmingham
2026-02-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Elgar Concert Hall, Bramall Music Building, University of Birmingham
Date: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Time: 18:30 – 20:00
The China Institute is delighted to invite you to our 2026 New Year Concert!
Join internationally renowned Chinese pianist Di Xiao and The Silk and Bamboo Trio for a concert threaded with harmony and moonlight to welcome the new year of the Horse!
A host of dazzling performers including:
Di Xiao – Pianist
Cheng Yu – Pipa
Zongpu Lu – Dizi
Mengdie Ji – Guzheng
Tickets will be £5 each, please book your ticket using the link below ****to secure your seat (tickets limited to 2 per booking).
BOOK HERE
We look forward to seeing you at the concert.
If you have any questions please email: academic.conferences@contacts.bham.ac.uk
📍 Venue: Elgar Concert Hall, Bramall Music Building, University of Birmingham🎟 Details and tickets: https://uobevents.eventsair.com/lunar-new-year-2026/lunar-new-year2026/Site/Register

East Meets West: Lunar New Year Concert at the British Museum
2026-02-13 18:30
Date: 13th February 2026
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Room 33 (The Sir Joseph Hotung Gallery of China and South Asia)
Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
Admission: Free
Prof Cheng Yu has been invited to perform in a special concert of Chinese and Western music at the British Museum, orgainsed by New Elements Music to celebrate the Year of the Horse. This continues her long-standing collaboration with the Museum, where she has previously performed for landmark exhibitions including the Terracotta Army, China’s Hidden Century, and The Silk Road.

Golden Horse Soars · 2026 Heritage in Harmony Chinese New Year Concert
2026-02-14 19:30 - 22:00
Golden Horse Soars · 2026 Heritage in Harmony Chinese New Year ConcertDate: Saturday, 14 February 2026Time: 7:30pm – 10:00pmVenue: Sinfonia Smith Square, London
金马腾飞 · 非遗之美｜伦敦新春音乐会
Prof. Cheng Yu will take the stage for “Golden Horse Soars · 2026 Heritage in Harmony Chinese New Year Concert“, held at Sinfonia Smith Square, a Grade I listed concert hall in central London, the event offers an intimate and immersive listening experience in celebration of the Year of the Horse. As a virtuoso of the Pipa and Guqin, she will perform alongside a full symphony orchestra and the UK Chinese Youth Choir. The programme features a diverse repertoire, including traditional masterpieces and contemporary suites inspired by Genshin Impact, showcasing the dialogue between ancient heritage and modern global culture.
Project Credits:

Chinese Music Artistic Consultant: Prof. Cheng Yu

Organisers: Time Capsule & New Elements

Supporting Body: Cultural Section, Chinese Embassy in the UK

Venues: Sinfonia Smith Square (14 Feb)

Book Ticket
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/golden-horse-soars-2026-heritage-in-harmony-chinese-new-year-concert-tickets-1981377261727

East Meets West Gala Concert
2026-02-17 19:00 - 22:00
East Meets West Gala ConcertDate: Tuesday, 17 February 2026Time: 7:00pmVenue:
The Menuhin Hall
Cobham Road
Stoke D’Abernon
Surrey
KT11 3QQ
An exuberant East Meets West Chamber Music Gala Concert, marking the grand finale of the SMA Chamber Music Festival and welcoming a year filled with creativity, vitality, and new artistic journeys.
The evening features two parts: a showcase by SMA young musicians, followed by an international artists ensemble bringing together Eastern and Western musical traditions.
Cheng Yu has been invited to perform alongside Erhu artist Ziyang Huang (UK Chinese Music) and international chamber musicians, presenting iconic works that highlight cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration.
Book your ticket:
https://www.menuhinhall.co.uk/events/east-meets-west-gala-concert

Quatuor Danel Lunchtime Concert
2026-02-19 13:10 - 15:00 | Martin Harris Centre for Music & Drama University of Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
19 February 2026, 1:10pm
Martin Harris Centre for Music & Drama, University of Manchester
Pipa virtuoso Cheng Yu is honoured to be invited by the University of Manchester to perform with the internationally acclaimed Quatuor Danel in this special lunchtime concert.
The programme presents a dialogue between Chinese and Western contemporary and traditional music, featuring both solo pipa repertoire and a world premiere for pipa and string quartet by composer Joshua Brown.
This collaboration highlights the expressive possibilities of the pipa within a Western chamber music context, bringing together diverse musical traditions through refined performance and new composition.
Programme:

Phil Grange – Soliloquy for Solo Viola
Traditional Chinese solo pipa works – Cheng Yu
Joshua Brown – Pipa Quintet (World Premiere)for Pipa and String Quartet, with Cheng Yu (pipa)

Venue:
Martin Harris Centre for Music & Drama
University of Manchester
Bridgeford Street, Manchester M13 9PL
Admission: Free
With the support of the University of Manchester and the Confucius Institute.
https://events.manchester.ac.uk/event/event:eg3-mdzvf72x-crjhfr

https://chengyumusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/202512032012.mp4

Chinese New Year Concert & Celebration with Sherry Youth Chamber Orchestra
2026-02-22 15:00 - 16:00
Date: Sunday, 22 February 2026Time: 3:00pm – 4:00pmVenue: Sands End Arts & Community Centre, London, SW6 3EZ
This special Lunar New Year concert features the Sherry Music Academy Youth Chamber Orchestra, presenting an East-meets-West programme performed by talented young musicians.
Cheng Yu has been specially invited to perform at this celebration, bringing a distinctive cultural highlight to the event.
The programme is accompanied by traditional dumpling-tasting and dumpling-making activities, offering audiences an engaging intercultural experience.
A joyful celebration of music, culture, and community in the heart of London.
Book your ticket:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sherry-music-academy-youth-chamber-orchestra-lunar-new-year-concert-tickets-1979729494210

Lunar New Year Celebration - Bang Bang Oriental City
2026-02-24 18:00 - 21:00
Join us on Thursday, 26 February 2026 in the evening for a special Lunar New Year celebration featuring a rich programme of cultural activities and performances.
Cheng Yu has been specially invited to take part in this event, bringing an artistic highlight to the evening.
More exciting activities will be announced soon, so be sure to follow our social media for the latest updates.

Sounds of Spring – Lunar New Year Concert 2026
2026-03-03 19:30 - 21:00 | Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre SOAS, University of London London WC1B 5DQ
Sounds of Spring “春之韵” Concert – Lunar New Year
Celebrating the year of the Horse
Happy Spring Festival!
Celebrate Lunar New Year with a special programme of rich, vibrant traditional and contemporary music. What better way to enjoy the full moon and to welcome spring!
Presented by SOAS, University of London, Organised by China Arts and UK Chinese Music, with a programme curated by Cheng Yu, the concert brings together leading musicians from China and the UK, featuring:

Chinese Orchestral Music (国乐管弦乐团)
Silk and Bamboo Music (江南丝竹)
Beijing Opera (京剧)
Face Changing (变脸)
Chaozhou String-Poem Music (潮州弦诗)
Pipa and Guqin Ensembles (琵琶与古琴合奏)
And more

Date & Time: 7:30pm, 3 March 2026Venue: SOAS Gallery Lecture TheatreSOAS, University of LondonLondon WC1B 5DQ
Tickets:https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sound-of-spring-lunar-new-year-celebration-tickets-1978897431488

London Youlan Qin Society Music Yaji Gathering – “Of Spring Scents and Cadences”
2026-03-07 13:00 - 16:30
LYQS 161st Yaji Gathering – “Of Spring Scents and Cadences”日暖花香山鸟啼
Date: Saturday, 7 March 2026Time: 1:00pmVenue: SOAS, University of LondonMain Building, Room RG01, WC1H 0XG
The London Youlan Qin Society (LYQS) will hold its 161st Yaji gathering at SOAS, bringing together guqin enthusiasts and Chinese music lovers for an afternoon of cultural exchange and artistic sharing.
Cheng Yu, Founder and Chairman of the London Youlan Qin Society, will attend and take part in this special gathering.
The event welcomes both performers and listeners. Participants who wish to perform are invited to submit their programme by 5 March via email.
This regular Yaji provides a relaxed and friendly platform for appreciating guqin music, traditional aesthetics, and scholarly exchange.
Book your ticket: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lyqs-161st-yaji-gathering-tickets-1981497189434?aff=erelexpmlt
For performance enquiries: info@ukchinesemusic.comWebsite: www.ukchinesemusic.com

Oxford University – St Cross Traditional Chinese FolkMusic Concert
2026-05-07 19:00 - 20:00
Invited by St Cross College, University of London’s World Music Series this year, renowned musicians Cheng Yu and Zongpu Lu will perform as the Silk & Bamboo Duo for the evening concert with a programme that celebrates traditional and regional Chinese music.
The Silk & Bamboo Duo comprises:
https://www.stx.ox.ac.uk/event/st-cross-traditional-chinese-folk-music-concert
Cheng Yu who plays the pipa (four-stringed lute) and guqin (seven-stringed zither).
and Zongpu Lu who plays the dizi (transverse) and xiao (vertical) flutes.
Date & Time: 7pm, 7th May 2026 (Free entry, booking requested)
Venue: Pusey House Chapel
St Cross College, University of Oxford
61 St Giles, Oxford OX1 3LZ
Booking:
This concert is free to attend but registration is required due to limited seating.
If you’d like to attend please register at this link.
12:30 – 13:15, Saturday 25 July 2026
Westminster Reference Library, London
35 St Martin’s St, WC2H 7HP
Admission: Free | Limited Seating
Book Ticket: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=G96VzPWXk0-0uv5ouFLPkR5jaOhZ-WFAsg1e4vS9kAxUMjMzNk82TVNLV1ExOUlCRVAwU0pTWFI2WiQlQCNjPTEu&route=shorturl
Follow Cheng Yu’s youtube and watch more concert pieces online: https://www.youtube.com/@chengyu_music

London Youlan Qin Society Music Yaji Gathering – “Spring’s Echo, Summer’s Prelude”
2026-05-09 13:00 - 15:30
LYQS 162nd Yaji Gathering – Spring’s Echo, Summer’s Prelude 舞雩弦音
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PMVenue: Room C325, Main Building, SOAS, University of London, WC1H 0XG

Join us for good vibes and great company as we welcome spring’s whispers and summer’s first notes at our 162nd Yaji!

On Saturday, 9 May 2026, the London Youlan Qin Society warmly welcomes lovers of guqin and Chinese music to a musical yaji gathering in London. The event will take place from 1:00-3:30pm. Centred on the performance of the guqin and other Chinese instruments, the event offers a graceful space to welcome early summer through culture and shared appreciation.

The event welcomes both performers and listeners.
This regular Yaji provides a relaxed and friendly platform for appreciating guqin music, traditional aesthetics, and scholarly exchange.
Book your ticket: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lyqs-161st-yaji-gathering-tickets-1981497189434?aff=erelexpmlt
For performance enquiries: info@ukchinesemusic.comWebsite: www.ukchinesemusic.com

Guqin Performance at the opening of the special exhibition "Form and Flux" - Afridi London and Michael Goedhuis Gallery
2026-07-07 18:30 - 20:00
Thanks to the invitation from Afridi London and Michael Goedhuis Gallery, I will be performing classic guqin music next Tuesday evening, July 7, at the opening of the special exhibition “Form and Flux: Chinese and Japanese Art and Silk Road Textiles.” The exhibition will run for one week at Afridi Gallery. If you are interested, please come along to see this rare exhibition. See details see the poster and websites. www.shahbazafridi.com and www.michaelgoedhuis.com .

Intercultural Music Dialogue - Pipa Works in Transcultural Music
2026-07-13 19:00 - 21:00
Super pleased to announce the upcoming seminar/workshop – Intercultural Music Dialogue Pipa works in Transcultural Music. I will be hosting this event on behalf of the Dept. of music, SOAS, University of London to welcome Dr LIU Lu, Senior Lecture and Discipline leader of Intercultural Music from Sydney Conservatory of Music and composer and Professor Michael Elison from University of Bristol. We will focus on the pipa music transition traditional and contemporary, explore the challenges of composer–performer collaboration and musical meanings. It will combine discussion, demonstration, a Q & A with the audience and a short improvisatory performance involving the 4 and 5-stringed pipa with Baglama (Turkish lute) or piano.
We look forward to sharing ideas, music, and conversations with fellow musicians, composers, scholars, students, and audience on this inspiring evening.

Lunchtime Concert – Quartet Siji 四季
2026-07-25 12:30 - 13:30
Lunchtime Concert – Quartet Siji 四季Pipa, Dizi, Cello & Piano
Date & Time: Date & Time: 12:30 – 13:15, Saturday 25 July 2026
Venue: Westminster Reference Library, London
35 St Martin’s St, WC2H 7HP
Admission: Free | Limited SeatingBook Ticket: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lunchtime-concert-ft-quartet-siji-tickets-1981859617466
We are delighted to be invited to perform in the City of Westminster.
Quartet Siji, a new ensemble presented by China Arts, makes its debut at the Westminster Reference Library Lunchtime Concert with a distinctive cross-cultural programme.
This concert is supported by the City of Westminster Council and Westminster Reference Library.
About Quartet Siji
Quartet Siji is a cross-cultural Chinese and Western exploration of their respective sound worlds featuring both classics and new compositions.
Programme highlights include:

Spring Dance 春舞 – Premier by Ray Lin (2026)
Echoes of Galaxy 星河垂笛 – Premier by Wang Qingyuan (2025)
Camel Bell of the Silk Road 丝路驼铃 – Ning Yong, arr. by Ray Lin
Shadows of the Sword 剑影 – By Ray Lin (2025)
Galloping Horse 赛马 – By Huang Haihuai, adapted by the quartet
Going Home 思念故乡 – By Antonín Dvořák, arr. by Ray Lin

Musicians:

Cheng Yu – pipa (4-stringed lute)
Zongpu Lu – dizi (bamboo flutes)
Hoda Jahanpour – cello
Bingbing Jiang – piano
Artistic Director: Cheng Yu
Music Director: Ray Lin

2026 Fourth London International Chinese Music Festival
2026-08-24 12:30 - 2026-08-28 13:30
Festival Director: Cheng Yu
24-28 August 2026, SOAS, University of London

Registration is now open for the Fourth London International Chinese Music Festival – the only festival of its kind in Europe. We offer systematic tuition, master classes and workshops and related learning experiences, grading and competitions as well a series of concerts. You are warmly invited to join us for this rich celebration of Chinese music. Download the exam and competition guidelines here. Download the festival registration form here. Book concert tickets here.
The festival comprises:
• 5-day Summer School 24 to 28 August (mornings).

• 2 days Grading Exams and Competition 27 to 28 August
• Concerts, Various themes and venues in London and beyond
• Yaji Literati Gathering – Guqin Music, Poetry, Traditional Costume and Tea (Free)
• Master classes/workshops (afternoons)
• Calligraphy and Chinese chess
• Singing and Choir (new) and Instrumental Ensemble (afternoons)

This year features a new Chinese Singing and Choir Class (see below), enabling access for a wider range of participants (see below). We are also building on the success of “Lutes of the Silk Road” (2024, supported by ACE) and “China West Soundscape” (2025), with the exciting new project of Sounds of East.

Main Partners and Organisers
In partnership with SOAS, University of London and the China Nationalities Orchestra Society (CNOS, China), the festival is organised by China Arts (UK), the London Youlan Qin Society and UK Chinese Music.
As places are limited, early registration is strongly recommended.

Main Musicians / Artists (UK Based) • Cheng Yu 程玉 – pipa and guqin virtuoso, Professor, Festival Director
• Chen Dacan 陈大灿 – erhu master/Professor and adjudicator
• Wang Chen 王晨 – vocalist and choir tutor
• Huang Ziyang 黄子洋 – erhu artist
• Yang Kang 杨康 – guzheng/vocal artist
• Ji Mengdie 冀梦蝶 – guzheng artist
• Chia-Yin Hung 洪嘉吟 – guqin and pipa performer
• Lu Zongpu 路宗璞 – dizi and xiao performer
• Dennis Lee 李光泰 – xiao and dizi performer
• Wang Wei 王蔚 – Beijing Opera and Kunqu performer
• Wan Ying 万英 – Chinese percussionist
• Jing Hui 蒋慧 – Chinese percussionist
• Lin Chen 林晨 – pipa/zhongruan lutes player
• Dr Hwee-San Tan 陈慧珊 – ethnomusicologist, lecturer and adjudicator
• Qin Lei 秦蕾 – calligrapher/guqin player

Main Musicians (International)
• Hong Yue 洪悦 – guzheng virtuosi and national credited examiner (Beijing, China)

• Xie Liqing 谢丽清 – Chaozhou music and sanxian specialist (Canton, China)
• Wu Dan 毋丹 – Kun Opera singer and scholar (Zhejiang, China)

Concert Series

Tue. 25 August 2026, 6pm Concert and workshop at Chinese Arts and Culture Centre, Unit E4, Stafford Park 15, Telford, TF3 3BB
Wed. 26 August 2026, 7pm Sound of East, Kamran Djam Lecture Theatre, SOAS University of London, 10 Thornhaugh Street, London WC1H 0XG
Thu. 27 August 2026, 7pm Gala Concert, Holy Sepulchre London, Holborn Viaduct, London EC1A 2DQ
Fri. 28 August 2026, 7pm Showcase Concert, Kamran Djam Lecture Theatre, SOAS University of London, 10 Thornhaugh Street, London WC1H 0XG

Yaji Gathering
Guqin Music, Poetry, Traditional Costume and Tea Friday 28 August 2:00-4:40pm, Djam Lecture.

The yaji (refined gathering) is a traditional Chinese literati activity with a history traceable to the Wei and Jin periods (3rd to 5th centuries CE). It is a gathering of free-spirited artists associated with guqin (zither) music playing, poetry, calligraphy, landscape painting and tea or wine, discussing philosophy, literature and art. For this meeting, we will focus on guqin music (and associated instrumental music) with poetry recital and accompanied with Chinese tea. We encourage participants to wear Hanfu (traditional Chinese costume). Places are limited, please register as early as possible.

SOAS Summer School Programme
24-28 August 2026 at SOAS, University of London 10am to 1pm (Instrumental classes),

2pm to 5pm (workshops, Choir, Ensemble etc.)

The five-day Summer School offers expert tuition on traditional Chinese instruments:
guqin 古琴, guzheng 古筝, pipa 琵琶, sanxian 三弦, erhu 二胡, dizi 笛子and xiao箫, singing and Chinese choir (声乐/合唱), Chinese folk percussion (中乐民族打击乐) and an ensemble class (民乐合课).

The summer school is carefully structured based on our previous experience: participants learn individual instruments they have chosen in the morning, join the workshops/masterclasses, singing/choir and ensemble classes in the afternoons and go to a concert in the evenings. It will be a friendly, colourful and fulfilling week. The summer school is a rare opportunity for anyone in the UK and overseas interested in learning and understanding more about traditional Chinese music and instruments. The summer school will combine group classes, one-to-one sessions, masterclasses, talks and demonstrations. It will be open to participants with little or no experience as well as to those at higher levels. All our tutors have Masters or higher degrees (see above) on their perspective instruments in both China and the UK and have years of teaching experience. At the end of the summer school, participants will have opportunities to give a demonstration and/or performance.

Masterclasses and Workshops
SOAS main building room G52 – 2.00pm

• Pipa masterclass – by Prof. Cheng Yu, 24 August 2pm
• Erhu workshop – Prof. Zhao Huan/Huang Ziyang – 24 August 7pm to 9pm
• Dizi/Xiao/ flutes workshop – Lu Zongpu/Dennis Lee: 25 August 2pm
• Guqin masterclass – 25 August 7 to 9pm
• Guzheng workshop – Yang Kang/Ji Mengdie, 26 August 2pm
• Sanxian (3-stringed lute) masterclass – Xie Liqing, 26 August 7pm
• Kunqu Opera workshop – Wang Wei, 28 August 10am
• Calligraphy workshop – Azalea Qin Lei, 28 August 2pm.

Chinese Singing and Choir Course – SOAS, 2.00 to 3.30pm, 24 to 27 Aug
As part of the festival, we are delighted to present a fun and welcoming vocal workshop open to both young teenagers and adults to sing in Chinese. No previous experience is required. Through these five interactive sessions, participants will explore voice, breathing, musical expression, and the joy of singing together in a relaxed and creative environment.

The singing course includes: • Basic vocal and breathing techniques Voice relaxation and resonance exercises • Simple song learning and musical expression • Group singing and harmony experience • Confidence and stage presence building We warmly welcome you to join us this summer and discover the power of your own voice. At the end of the summer school, you will be a chance to demonstrate what you have learnt and to join in a group/choir performance.

Ensemble classes (level 3/4 or above required) Prof. Zhaohuan, Prof. Chen Dacan, Prof. Cheng Yu, Xie Liqing and others.
The ensemble class is designed for students to learn and practice in a group setting under the guidance of the tutors. Participant are required to have obtained at least a level 3 or 4 qualification from any nationally recognized examining body in China, such as CNOS, China Central Conservatory, China conservatory and Shanghai Conservatory. Through this course, participants can expect to learn at least two pieces at different levels. Confident players will join the Showcase concert to perform.
Chinese Folk Percussion Music Course Supplementary activity Weiqi (Chinese Chess (Go)) – during leisure periods (e.g. lunchtime, practice time) Supervisor Elaine Yu Chinese Calligraphy Workshop (SOAS, Room G52) Calligraphy: Azalea Qin Lei – 2 to 4pm, 28rd Aug. We reserve the right to adjust the schedule, venues and personnel due to unforeseen circumstances.

Tutors for the festival summer school classes
• Guqin 古琴 Advanced classes
• Guqin 古琴初中级 Beginner to intermediate – taught by Chia-Yin Hung 洪嘉吟
• Pipa 琵琶 – taught by Prof. Cheng Yu and Lin Chen 程玉教授/林晨
• Guzheng 古筝 – taught by Yang Kang and Ji Mengdie 杨康/冀梦蝶
• Erhu 二胡 – taught by Huang Ziyang and Prof. Chen Dacan 黄子洋/陈大灿教授
• Dizi and xiao flutes笛箫– taught by Zongpu Lu and Dennis Lee 路宗璞/李光泰
• Sanxian lute 三弦 and Chaozhou Music – taught by Xie Liqin 谢丽清
• Chinese Percussion 民族打击乐 – taught by Wan Ying/Jiang Hui 万英/蒋慧
• Singing & Choir – taught by Wang Chen 王晨
• Ensemble Class – taught by Prof Zhao Huan, Prof. Chen Dacan, Wan Ying
• Calligraphy workshop – taught by Azalea 秦蕾

• Chinese Chess (Go) – Lunchtime leisure activity, overseen by Elaine Yu 于宁 At the end of the summer school, all participants will have opportunities to demonstrate what they have learnt. We encourage participants, especially young learners, to take the instrumental Grading Exams and competition that the festival provides to show what they have achieved. High achievers and winners will join our Showcase and or concerts with our professional musicians.
Concerts and Festival Performances
The festival presents a series of performances featuring artists from the UK, China and the wider international Chinese music community.

Gala Concert The SOAS concert will focus on traditional Chinese and Intangible Cultural Heritage music, featuring instruments such as guqin, guzheng, pipa, dizi, xiao, xun, erhu and ruan, alongside ensemble works, opera collaborations and performances by outstanding festival participants and prizewinners.

Showcase Concert This concert will feature festival artists, participants, and selected prizewinners from the grading examinations and competition.

Participants will have the opportunity to:
• perform in public concerts • take part in a professional competition
• receive official dual certification recognised in China and the UK
• join lectures, workshops and masterclasses • receive guidance from distinguished artists and adjudicator

Grading Examinations and Competition
27–28 August 2026 | SOAS, University of London

The festival offers participants the opportunity to take part in grading examinations and competitions jointly evaluated and recognised in both China and the UK/West, though the examining bodies: SOAS, University of London, China Arts (UK) and the China Nationalities Orchestra Society (CNOS) – China’s leading authority for Chinese music. There has long been a need for learners of Chinese traditional instruments in the UK to be able to take such exams and have their achievements over the years recognised, and to encourage them to further their musical development. This is especially good for young learners as the grades are recognised by UK mainstream schools. For example, our grade achievers and competition winners have contributed to their music scholarship in mainstream schools, university entry and to giving performances on major stages in the UK. For details, see the guidelines. Categories include:
• All Traditional Chinese instruments (individuals and ensembles) • Vocal performance (Songs in Chinese, individuals and Choirs) •Chinese instruments with Western or World music groups/ensembles. Exams and competitions (divided into youth and adult groups) include all types of traditional Chinese instruments: guqin, guzheng, pipa, liuqin, yangqin, sanxian, zhongruan/daruan, erhu, dizi, xiao, sheng, suona, hulusi, singing, choir and ensemble/group performances. Awards include First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, Outstanding Performance Award, Best Stage Presentation Award and Outstanding Teacher Award.

Join Us
If you love Chinese music, wish to perform on an international stage, or would like to deepen your artistic and cultural experience, we warmly invite you to join the 2026 London International Chinese Music Festival.

Registration and Enquiries Places are limited and early registration is strongly recommended.
Email: info@ukchinesemusic.com
Websites: ukchinesemusic.org | china-arts.uk | chengyumusic.com
Instagram: @ukchinesemusic @china_arts_uk @londonyoulanqinsociety Download the exam and competition guidelines here.
Download the festival registration form here.
Book concert tickets here.
