As the only overseas branch of the Yehudi Menuhin School, the founding and development of The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao has become a significant achievement in China-UK educational collaboration. Recently, the Head of North China Outreach at the British Embassy in Beijing visited our school to enhance cooperation with British educational institutions. This visit aimed to further the school’s mission of nurturing globally-minded musical talent and advancing the development of music education and the arts. 

On October 25, Chris Butland, Head of North China Outreach at the British Embassy in Beijing, toured The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao, bringing with him a deep passion for Sino-British cultural exchange. His visit marked the beginning of promising developments in international cooperation.

During the visit, Mr. Butland explored the campus and learned about the school’s development and achievements. He praised the school’s exceptional learning environment, its international architectural design, and its student-centered approach. Mr. Butland also expressed a strong interest in arranging a visit from the British Ambassador to China, believing that the ambassador would also be impressed by the school's vibrant atmosphere. 

In the afternoon, Mr. Butland had the opportunity to experience live performances by students in the Menuhin Hall. Liu Zewen, a piano major, performed “Spring Dance,” while Ma Yicheng (violin), Luo Yuchen (cello), and Liu Wensen (piano) played a Beethoven ensemble piece. Mr. Butland praised the students’ performances, stating that they exemplified the school’s excellence in music education and artistry. 

During discussions, Mr. Butland expressed his desire to invite students and teachers to perform at the British Embassy, envisioning future exchanges in music, sports, and other areas. He also provided suggestions for expanding the school’s collaboration with top music institutions in the UK and other countries, offering to help build closer connections to further mutual development in music education and the arts.

Mr. Butland emphasized the long-standing cooperation and deep friendship between China and the UK in the fields of music and the arts. He reaffirmed the British Embassy’s commitment to supporting The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao as it grows on the international stage, contributing to cultural exchange and collaboration between the two nations.