On October 29, Philippe Tondre, Oboe Professor at the Curtis Institute of Music, visited The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao (YMSQ) to conduct a masterclass and perform in a concert. This event marked the first international academic exchange since the establishment of our Woodwind Department and also initiated a promising partnership with a world-class music institution.

After touring the campus, Professor Tondre was thoroughly impressed by the exceptional musical environment, which he described as the perfect setting for cultivating future musicians. He praised our holistic educational approach and discussed opportunities for potential collaboration. Professor Tondre also shared invaluable advice with YMSQ students interested in applying to the Curtis Institute, expressing his hope to see more of our students at Curtis in the future.

During the masterclass, Professor Tondre worked one-on-one with four of our oboe students. The sessions not only refined their technical skills but also deepened their understanding of music and the repertoire. With the guidance of Professor Wei Weidong and teacher Wang Xiubao, our oboe students made remarkable progress. After attending Professor Tondre’s class, they gained a fresh perspective on their oboe studies and the wider international music scene.

The evening concert was a perfect showcase of the oboe’s unique appeal. Philippe Tondre’s oboe solo displayed his exceptional technique and musical depth, while our oboe teacher Wang Xiubao joined him in a performance of five works by Shostakovich, bringing these pieces to life with emotional resonance and sensitivity. The combination of piano and oboe created a harmonious balance, as the profound emotions of the piano blended beautifully with the rich, warm tones of the oboe, leaving the audience entranced.

Since the founding of the Woodwind Department, under the leadership of Professor Li Lansong, we have organized daily lessons with great attention to detail and actively sought partnerships with prestigious institutions. This event not only provided our Woodwind students with the opportunity to engage with world-class masters but also opened new doors for future development through our growing relationship with the Curtis Institute of Music.

Philippe Tondre

Principal Oboe, Philadelphia Orchestra

Oboe Professor, Curtis Institute of Music

Guest Oboe Professor, Royal Northern College of Music, UK

Principal Oboe, European Chamber Ensemble

Principal Oboe, Mito Chamber Orchestra and Saito Memorial Orchestra, Japan