The sweet sound of Wuxi

Most companies in the Meicun Erhu Industrial Park are dedicated to producing mid- to high-end handmade erhu. [Photo by Hu Xiao/For China Daily]

One exemplary production is the Legend of Taihu Lake, a musical drama that has been performed around 300 times.

Following a modern-day protagonist who travels back in time, it explores the mythology, history and culture of Wuxi and nearby regions through a variety of performing genres, including dance, martial arts, acrobatics and folk singing.

"As part of their education, students not only learn traditional music but also engage with modern music. Through fusion, they create new pieces built upon the foundation of traditional music, enriching the scene," says Lu Liming, executive dean of the college.

"Education is also a contributing factor to the city's development. It leads to the training of talented musicians whose work and performances display Wuxi's musical heritage, burnishing the city's image."

It is also indispensable to the music industry, completing a chain that includes composition, performance and training, injecting fresh vitality into Wuxi's economic development, Lu adds.