A man of immeasurable talent

Born in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, Lin declared his ambition to become a violinist at a very early age. Upon graduating from the Central Conservatory of Music in 1960, Lin went to study under internationally renowned violin professor Yuri Yankelevich (1909-73) in Moscow. In 1962, Lin returned to the Central Conservatory of Music and embarked on a teaching career.

In addition to the musical tribute, Lin's daughter, violinist Lin Wei, has been preserving her father's pedagogical legacy. Over the years, she led the creation of the Lin Yaoji Violin Method, a comprehensive curriculum now published by the Central Conservatory of Music Press. This series of textbooks has become a cornerstone of violin education not only in China but also internationally, ensuring that Lin's unique approach continues to inspire future generations of musicians.

"As his daughter, I was immersed in his teaching methods from an early age," Lin Wei recalls. "His use of metaphorical language to address musical challenges has shaped my understanding of music, both as a violinist and a teacher. It's a universal approach that resonates far beyond the violin."

Lin Wei's daughters, Laufey and Junia, were fortunate to grow up playing and singing with their grandfather before his passing.

"Their joy in music with him is something they'll always carry with them. Laufey often talks about how my father's poetic, nature-inspired approach to music influenced her music works," Lin Wei adds.

Reflecting on her father's legacy, Lin Wei notes: "Today, you'll find Chinese musicians in leadership positions at the world's top orchestras and conservatories — something unthinkable during my father's generation. This concert on Oct 30 showcased three generations of violinists, just as he envisioned. It's essential that we continue to spread his methods and ensure that his legacy flourishes."

In 2010, Lin Wei and her friend, Winnie Tam, cofounded the Lin Yaoji Music Foundation of China in memory of Lin Yaoji. The foundation continues to honor his life's work, broadening his influence in China and beyond.

Winnie Tam, a close friend of the Lin family and vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, attended the concert and reflected on Lin's impact. "Many of the musicians in the Hong Kong Philharmonic learned from him, and my own children studied with him," Tam says. "He didn't just teach music; he lived it. He breathed rhythm and melody into every lesson, passing on the passion that fueled his own journey."

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn