China National Symphony Orchestra and Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory signed a framework agreement for friendly cooperation at Beijing Concert Hall on Sept 26. The signing ceremony marked the China-Russia Years of Culture in 2024 and 2025.

Alexander Sokolov, rector of Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory, gave an opening speech, noting that this partnership will leverage both sides' strengths, aiming to deepen cooperation in the fields of music art dissemination, career development and cultural exchange. Together, the two institutions will work toward advancing the development of music in Russia and China.

Zhou Yu, the Party secretary of the China National Symphony Orchestra, mentions the historical ties between the two institutions. He says that many esteemed musicians of the China National Symphony Orchestra, such as conductors Li Delun and Yan Liangkun, had once been sent to study at the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory, contributing to the rich and longstanding relationship between the two sides.

This agreement, he adds, represents the collaboration between two of the most prestigious musical institutions in their respective countries and will foster joint efforts in art creation, talent cultivation and cultural exchanges. Both sides aim to contribute to the broader goal of building a shared future for humanity.

The ceremony also invited Zuo Yin, a renowned Chinese harp educator and former deputy Party secretary and vice-president of the China National Symphony Orchestra, who expressed her heartfelt emotions at the event. Zuo, a graduate of the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory, shared her deep personal connection to both institutions, calling the partnership "a moment worth celebrating". She conveyed her gratitude for the chance to witness this agreement, which reflects her lifelong dedication to music.

The agreement creates a platform for ongoing collaboration between the China National Symphony Orchestra and the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory. And 2026 will mark significant milestones, such as the 70th anniversary of the China National Symphony Orchestra’s founding and the 160th anniversary of the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory. Future cooperation will focus on mutual visits, joint performances, artist collaborations, co-productions and integrated talent development programs, Zhou says.

“This partnership aims to inject fresh energy into China-Russia cultural exchanges and strengthen professional ties in the music world, ultimately benefiting both institutions and contributing to global cultural dialogue,” he says.

 

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