Tribute to the teacher

Jin Tielin, dean of the China Conservatory, an institution that synthesizes the study of Chinese traditional music, is a renowned figure in music circles. On July 11, Jin's students, including the well-known Peng Liyuan, Song Zuying and Dai Yuqiang, will come together for a special concert to express their gratitude to their teacher.

They will present folk songs from home and abroad, with a highlight being the chorus by all there.

Jin was a household name in China in the 1970s as a singer. He later gave up his music career, and devoted himself to teaching. He has overseen the musical talents of more than 400 students, including Yan Weiwen, Liu Bin, and Zhang Ye. Hong Kong pop singer Leon Lai and Michele Lee have also come under his tutelage. Jin does not believe in overnight successes. "[Becoming famous overnight] does no good to either society or the singer. Many songs in American Idol programs are in bad taste. Beginners should give themselves more time," he says.