Gulangyu's 'Island of Music' shines through performances

The classic French opera Carmen at the Bagua Building. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn]

An immersive concert of the classic French opera Carmen was held at the Bagua Building of Gulangyu Island, Xiamen, Fujian province, on July 12, marking the opening of the 6th Gulangyu Music Festival. The historic Bagua Building served as a natural stage for this fresh attempt to revitalize cultural heritage, allowing the audience to experience the charm of classic opera within a century-old architectural masterpiece.

The 6th Gulangyu Music Festival, running from July 12 to 21, features nearly 100 performances spanning opera, organ, piano, pop music, and more. With venues scattered across the island, it promises an immersive feast for music lovers worldwide.

Nearly all events included in this year's music festival are open to residents and tourists for free. Additionally, from 6 pm to 7:30 pm daily, "Music Street Performances" will take place at three iconic outdoor locations — Piano Pier, John Ma Square, and the World Heritage Site landmark — allowing visitors to listen to enchanting melodies while strolling through the island.

This year's music festival has also attracted numerous artists and institutions. Under the "Music Hall" program, 11 concerts will be staged at the Gulangyu Concert Hall. Meanwhile, the Kulangsu Organ Arts Center will host 10 special performances. Renowned international organ players will sign on as "Gulangyu Artists-in-Residence", performing alongside celebrated musicians from around the world and conducting masterclasses.

The historic Bagua Building serves as a natural stage. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn]