Mikhail Golikov, Director, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the St Petersburg State Philharmonic for Children and Youth, has become a visiting professor at the China Conservatory of Music.

As part of a programme of master classes from outstanding masters of the world stage held by the Chinese Conservatory of Music, Mikhail Golikov gave master classes and performed with the Conservatory’s Symphony Orchestra a special programme prepared for the anniversary of the great Russian composer Alexander Borodin.

In an exclusive commentary for TV BRICS, the conductor spoke about his vision of co-operation between musical institutions in Russia and China and how this can promote cultural exchange between the two countries:

“Certainly, I see my goals and objectives as expanding the exchange of experience with leading professors of the Chinese Conservatory, and working to popularise Russian symphonic music in China. <…> Unfortunately, despite the fact that audiences are well familiar with the works of Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, and Shostakovich, much less well known are the works of other fine composers, of whom there are quite enough in our musical history in both the 19th and 20th centuries.”

In addition, master classes at the Conservatoire were given by such classical music stars as Russian violinist and People’s Artist of the Russian Federation Vadim Repin, British cellist Julian Lloyd Webber and Stephen Maddock, Executive Director of the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

According to Golikov, it is very important to invite conductors and soloists from different countries to participate in various events.

“I am sure that the masterclass programme that I have conducted will also contribute to this cultural exchange,” he added.

The Chinese Conservatory of Music is one of the most famous higher education institutions in China. With top-notch teachers, the China Conservatory of Music is a national leader in all disciplines. It was founded in 1964. In 50 years, the Conservatory has produced a large number of outstanding musicians.

The humanitarian track occupies an important place in the concept of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. The development of joint cultural projects and the expansion of co-operation in education, science and sport are designed to overcome the disunity of peoples and promote their mutual understanding, mutual respect and trust.

“One Belt, One Road” was launched by the Chinese government in 2013. The Third One Belt, One Road International Cooperation Forum was held on 17-18 October 2023, which was personally attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin. On the eve of this event, the TV BRICS international network and CGTN presented a joint media project. The programme is available on the English version of the TV BRICS website.

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