Music bridges cultures at Shanghai youth art exchange

Shanghai University's Baoshan Campus came alive on Saturday evening with a dynamic showcase of musical performances that brought together Chinese and international youth, fostering meaningful connections through the universal language of music.

The 2025 Sino-Foreign Youth Art Exchange Evening, which coincided with the Harvard Krokodiloes Shanghai Charity Tour, drew over 900 participants from local universities, youth organizations, and philanthropic groups.

The event, themed "Blossoming Arts, Singing for Love", featured performances by groups including the Viva Choir of East China Normal University, Shanghai University ensembles, the Harvard Krokodiloes, and various community groups.

The program featured a diverse repertoire of Chinese and Western classics like House of Blue Lights and The Water Dance of Lluvia.

Organized by the Shanghai Youth Activity Center and the Shanghai University Youth League Committee, the event marked the second major cultural showcase in the center's international youth friendship series.

A highlight of the evening was a collaborative performance of Auld Lang Syne by Chinese and international participants, symbolizing cross-cultural unity and understanding.

Cyril Leahy, a member of Harvard's Krokodiloes Choir, explained the choir's choice to perform the Chinese song Tong Hua (Fairy Tale), saying: "It holds sentimental value for many. As we aim to build bridges with communities worldwide, we seek music that resonates with everyone."

Allen, another choir member with Chinese heritage, added, "The training and preparation were tough, but absolutely rewarding and meaningful."

Fei Xinyao and Luo Bin contributed to this story.