On May 9th, the first International Youth Violin/Classical Guitar Education Symposium was grandly held at The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao (YMSQ). Musicians, educators from prominent institutions such as the Central Conservatory of Music, Tianjin Conservatory of Music, Zhejiang Conservatory of Music, Sichuan Conservatory of Music, Xi'an Conservatory of Music, Jilin College of the Arts, and Shandong Normal University College of Music, along with violin and classical guitar teachers and industry representatives from across the country, gathered at YMSQ to participate in a series of events including the symposium and exchange concerts. Together, they contributed to the development and progress of the violin/classical guitar profession and the flourishing of youth music education.

Under the holistic education philosophy of YMSQ, the symposium focused on the development of international education for youth. It brought together frontline music educators and musicians to engage in critical discussions and debates, aiming to elevate the violin/classical guitar programs at our school.

Mr. Mark Stringer, the deputy head of YMSQ, delivered the welcome speech. Head Ran Zheng provided a comprehensive introduction to the school. The symposium centered on the training and development of youth in the violin/classical guitar disciplines. Participants shared their educational experiences, exchanged insights, and engaged in collaborative discussions. He Qing, a classical guitar professor at Tianjin Conservatory of Music, remarked that the swift establishment of a classical guitar program at the school is a significant achievement for the classical guitar community. He praised the school's outstanding facilities and its readiness to support students in their pursuit of international, professional, and diverse learning experiences. Zhang Zhiying, associate professor and head of the Violin and Viola Department at Xi'an Conservatory of Music, stated that YMSQ is truly dedicated to nurturing musicians. Li Qian, professor and head of the Violin and Viola Department at Sichuan Conservatory of Music, endorsed the school's holistic education philosophy, expressing enthusiasm for future collaborations with the school.

In September of last year, the school’s Violin Department officially added a classical guitar program, offering courses such as solo, ensemble, performance, and guitar art appreciation. Esteemed professors Wang You and Liu Xianji were invited to provide professional instruction in the classical guitar program.

That evening, the exchange concert of the International Youth Violin/Classical Guitar Education Symposium was held at the Menuhin Hall. Faculty and students from our violin/classical guitar programs, along with representatives from music academies across the country, took the stage. This marked the first official performance by all students in the classical guitar program since its establishment. They showcased the warm and delicate tones of the classical guitar through solos and ensembles, effortlessly interpreting music from different periods, styles, and cultures. The audience was treated to a magnificent feast of classical guitar artistry.