For the love of lutes

More than 120 young students from different parts of China performed at the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing on Friday, playing adaptations of folk and pop music.

They were participants in a three-day pipa (a four-stringed lute) training summer camp, given by Zhang Hongyan.

The camp was part of the ongoing Gateway to Arts summer festival and attracted students of various ages.

"We have been running this training camp for 13 years. I have seen the increased interest in the ancient musical instrument, which makes me very proud," said Zhang.

"We designed different courses for those who have already learned to play the pipa and for those who have never touched it before, to allow everyone to enjoy playing the instrument. Though they may not become professional performers, the pipa will become part of their lives," Zhang added.

The pipa is a traditional instrument that has existed for over 2,000 years. Its range of sounds and beautiful appearance attract music lovers of different generations.

Established in 1995, the annual Gateway to Arts summer festival offer courses in a wide array of arts including classical music, traditional Chinese opera, dance performances and puppet shows.

In addition to the pipa, the festival will also host mini-summer camps for young music enthusiasts in disciplines such as choral singing and Chinese musical instruments, providing them with valuable learning experiences under the guidance of seasoned musicians and artists.