Competition launched to promote musical education and youth talent

The China Popular Music Association and the China Society for the Studies of Children Literature have jointly launched the Children's Band Battle, a prestigious national event unveiled in Beijing on Wednesday.

This eagerly anticipated competition will bring together talented children's bands from across the country, converging at the NCPA Taihu Stage Art Centre in Beijing from Aug 19 to 23 for a dynamic five-day summer camp filled with electrifying live performances and enriching masterclasses.

The participating children's bands will be categorized into groups based on age distinctions, spanning from 3 to 8 years old, 9 to 12 years old, and 13 to 17 years old, ensuring a fair and engaging competition tailored to each group's unique talent and capabilities.

Renowned figures in the music industry, including veteran songwriters Jin Zhaojun, Jia Ding, and esteemed members of Chinese rock bands such as Zhao Mingyi, the iconic drummer of Black Panther, will form the esteemed art committee. These distinguished artists will serve as mentors to the young bands, offering guidance during rehearsals and conducting enlightening masterclasses to nurture their musical prowess.

Zhang Shurong, vice-president of the art committee, highlighted the significance of art education in modern schools, noting the increasing trend of children learning not only classical instruments like the piano and violin but also contemporary musical instruments. The event aims to provide a platform for children to showcase their talents, forge new friendships, and foster meaningful communication through the universal language of music.

Reflecting on his own musical journey, drummer Zhao expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming summer camp, eager to impart his knowledge and experiences to the next generation of musicians. He emphasized the lasting influence of music on individuals' lives, stating that while not all participants may pursue music professionally, they will undoubtedly carry their love for music throughout their lifetime, enriching their experiences and relationships along the way.