We had the honor of hosting a distinguished delegation led by Vanessa Latarche, the Head of the Keyboard Faculty at the Royal College of Music in London, and Dr. Scott Mcbride Smith, Professor of Piano Pedagogy and Doctoral Supervisor at the University of Kansas in the United States, at The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao (YMSQ).

During this visit, both professors expressed their keen interest in YMSQ's progress since its establishment. They eagerly awaited the opportunity to visit this unique overseas school affiliated with The Yehudi Menuhin School in the UK, which finally materialized during the 8th International Irmler Piano Competition. Vanessa Latarche and her delegation conducted a comprehensive tour of the school, including the music teaching building, academic teaching building, the Menuhin Hall, rehearsal rooms, and practice rooms. They gained a profound understanding of the school's developmental journey and offered high praise for the school's exceptional environment and world-class facilities. They were also astounded by the school's rapid growth over the past year. Vanessa Latarche and her team are eagerly anticipating the establishment of a long-term relationship with YMSQ and are hopeful for opportunities to engage in more in-depth exchanges with YMSQ students.

Both professors served as judges in the final round of the 8th International Irmler Piano Competition. They had the privilege of witnessing the performance of Wang Zikang, a piano major student from our school, during the competition. Impressed by the professional qualities displayed by our students, they extended a warm welcome on behalf of the Royal College of Music, London, and the University of Kansas to the young musicians from YMSQ.