An international pianist connects with local performers. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

The 14th Gulangyu Piano Art Week, themed "Our Island, Our Piano", was held from Sept 30 to Oct 6 in Xiamen, Fujian province, featuring over 80 art events.

The art week brought together top musicians from countries including Russia, Italy, and the United Kingdom. During the event, diverse cultural and tourism experiences were offered alongside in-depth public aesthetic education, showcasing  Gulangyu's cultural charm and international influence as the "Island of Music".

World-renowned Canadian pianist Marc-Andre Hamelin signed on as a "Gulangyu Artist-in-Residence", holding multiple concerts in Fuzhou and Xiamen. Another "Gulangyu Artist-in-Residence", Russian Honored Artist and pianist Andrey Pisarev, returned to the island this year to deliver high-level performances.

The "Gulangyu International College Collaboration Program" signing ceremony. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

The Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory from Russia and the Brescia Music Academy from Italy also joined  the "Gulangyu International College Collaboration Program", marking a significant step forward in Gulangyu's international music education efforts.

During this musical extravaganza, many visitors stepped into the role of "musicians". Artists from Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and other countries conducted public masterclasses, which were open to students worldwide and included experiential courses tailored for absolute beginners.

An open-air concert. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

Open-air concerts were also a highlight of this year's art week, with courtyard and square concerts held at venues like the Huang Rongyuan Mansion, allowing visitors to enjoy music while taking a stroll. The concert at Gangzaihou Beach featured a diverse range of themes, including Chinese-style trends, jazz, and pop, creating a highly immersive outdoor music experience.