MEGY in China: International Yehudi Menuhin Competition

Youth chamber orchestra at the Menuhin Competition in Beijing: promotion of dialogue between young Chinese and European musicians

The 2012 edition of the International Yehudi Menuhin Competition competition was held in the Central Conservatory of China in Beijing (for information in Chinese please see the following link: http://www.ccom.edu.cn/news/) from 6 to 15 April. As part of the MEGY project, a youth chamber orchestra was created bringing together pupils from the Menuhin School in the United Kingdom and pupils of the Middle School of the Central Conservatory in Beijing. The musicians (around twenty in total, aged roughly 12-18) spent five days rehearsing together. They performed at the Forbidden City Concert Hall and accompanied the junior finalists in their renditions of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.

At the end of the first day, a special exchange session helped break the ice between the musicians and get them to reflect upon the cultural exchange that was taking place. This session was followed by many informal gatherings throughout the event.

Through rehearsing, performing and talking together, these young people used the common medium of music to foster intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, and to ensure the future development of these ties.

 Please find more information about the Menuhin Competition here