Wuxi Named UNESCO “City of Music” China’s First World City of Music

Wuxi Named UNESCO “City of Music,” Marking a New Cultural Milestone for China

Wuxi has struck a historic chord on the world stage, officially joining UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network as China’s first “City of Music.” This recognition positions Wuxi among 76 global music capitals — including Vienna, Liverpool, and Havana — celebrating its deep cultural legacy and growing global influence.

A Legacy Rooted in Melody

Known as the “Hometown of Chinese Folk Music,” Wuxi is the birthplace of legendary musician A Bing (Hua Yanjun) and his timeless masterpiece Erquan Yingyue (Moon Reflected on Second Spring). Revered worldwide, the emotive erhu composition embodies the soul of Chinese classical music — inspiring artists and conductors across generations. Of China’s ten most famous erhu pieces, eight trace their roots to Wuxi.

A New Symphony for the Future

Today, Wuxi is composing its next cultural chapter. The Wuxi Symphony Orchestra, founded in 2023, has already toured globally from Shanghai to London and Tokyo. Its upcoming Wuxi Symphony Concert Hall, opening January 1, 2026, will serve as an international hub for artistic collaboration and world-class performances.

Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Cultural continuity thrives here — from the 400-year-old Tianyun Society Kunqu Salon to the “Nightingale” youth arts initiative nurturing new generations of musicians. With over 370 music companies, 2,000+ training institutions, and an industry valued near USD 1 billion, Wuxi’s music economy is as dynamic as its history. The city also crafts over 50,000 erhu instruments annually, alongside harmonicas and accordions exported worldwide.

Bridging East and West

Wuxi’s influence has long extended beyond China. From Yang Yinliu, who united Christian and Chinese musical traditions, to Gu Yuxiu, who translated Ode to Joy and helped shape China’s first national symphony institutions — Wuxi has always been a cultural bridge between worlds.

The Pearl of Taihu Lake Shines Brighter

Just 30 minutes from Shanghai, Wuxi — often called the “Pearl of Taihu Lake” — now stands as a global symbol of how tradition, artistry, and innovation can harmonize in perfect rhythm.