Xiamen, east China

Musician in Residence – Matthew Bourne

Xiamen China, piano islandXiamen, which was a treaty port in the 19th Century, is now, according to Wikipedia, “..known in China as a prosperous and clean city with a pleasant subtropical seaside climate. It is endowed with educational and cultural institutions supported by the overseas Chinese diaspora.” The island of Gulangyu in Xiamen is also called ‘Piano Island’ by the locals, where “…piano music drifts from the villas and lingers throughout the island’s narrow streets.” A most suitable place for Matthew Bourne to gain inspiration.

Host Organisation

Art College of Xiamen University
Art College of Xiamen University was established in 1983 with a focus on music and fine arts with a network of local traditional music teachers, artists and some traditional music troupes. Its piano department is particularly outstanding, benefit from the city’s long piano tradition.