As dawn broke over Chengdu on the Chinese mainland, a hush fell across the 2025 Golden Panda International Cultural Forum. Baritone Liao Changyong stepped onto the stage, ready to breathe new life into The River Runs East, a song composed in Berlin in 1920 by Liao Shangguo. This piece, set to an 11th-century poem by Su Shi, is celebrated as the first art song bridging Eastern tradition and Western form.
In a performance that felt both timeless and immediate, Liao’s rich voice carried Su Shi’s verses across the hall, reminding audiences why this song endures. Young global citizens and cultural enthusiasts alike leaned in as each note wove together history and innovation.
More than a recital, the moment sparked conversations about how heritage can fuel creativity in a digital age. For business leaders and tech innovators, it underscored the value of cultural exchange in shaping tomorrow’s trends. Travelers and digital nomads watching online found inspiration for their own journeys—seeking out local stories that resonate globally.
When the final chord faded, the audience erupted in applause, proof that a century-old composition can still unite diverse listeners. As East meets West in every rising note, Liao Changyong’s performance reminds us that music transcends borders and time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
