Orchestra Director Envisions Festival as a “Big Party for Music Lovers”

At a press conference on September 28 in Beijing, Beijing Symphony Orchestra (BSO) Director Li Changjun outlined ambitious plans to expand the Taihu Classical Music Festival into what he described as “a big party for classical music lovers.”The announcement came ahead of the second edition of the festival, which runs from October 1 to 7 in Beijing’s Taihu County in Tongzhou District.Speaking about this year’s programme highlights, Li emphasised the festival’s subtitle, “a festival for classical music lovers,” noting the importance of engaging a wider community beyond professional musicians. He said the BSO is considering future initiatives such as performances by amateur musicians, showcases for non-professional composers, and even commissioning new works from talented enthusiasts.Li gave the example of a Chinese-American friend, a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, who has written symphonic works despite not being a professional musician. “Music is often a matter of talent,” Li said. “There are many people who, though trained in other fields, can quickly master composition or performance. Their works could have a place at the TCMF.”Looking ahead, Li said the festival could develop into a platform where anyone connected with classical music—whether performer, composer, conductor, or even music critic—can share their perspectives and talents. “The goal,” he said, “is to make the Taihu Classical Music Festival a genuine gathering for classical music lovers, where every year we introduce something new.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com