National Chinese Music Center in Jiangyin [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Jiangyin's new cultural landmark, the National Chinese Music Center, was officially inaugurated on January 1.
Jiangyin, known for its rich cultural heritage and profound artistic tradition, has earned the title of "Hometown of Chinese Folk Music". The city has nurtured numerous maestros, including Liu Tianhua, Zheng Jinwen and Zhou Shaomei in folk music, and luminaries such as Shen Peng, Cao Peng and Zhao Zongzao in other art forms.
Located at the core area of Jiangyin's Beimen Street Historic and Cultural District and surrounded by water on all sides, the National Chinese Music Center cost a total of 2.5 billion yuan to build over a construction area of 125,000 square meters.
Based on Liu Tianhua's legacy and Jiangyin's status, the center features landmarks including a concert hall, art gallery and science museum. It is designed as an integrated cultural and artistic hub for folk music exchange, research, training, competitions, performances and immersive experiences.
The concert hall, acoustically designed by renowned international master Yasuhisa Toyota, can accommodate performances by a full three-section symphony orchestra of over 100 musicians. Its 796 audience seats are arranged in a terraced canyon style, ensuring excellent sightlines and a comfortable experience for every spectator.