Bringing Innovation to China’s Top Music Institutions
In 2024, Boston-based saxophonist and music curator Zishi Liu returned to his native China, representing the Longy School of Music of Bard College, where he currently serves on the faculty. During this visit, he conducted masterclasses and performances at four of the country’s leading music conservatories, aiming to strengthen international partnerships and foster meaningful cultural exchange.
Liu's approach to music education emphasizes the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions. Drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese philosophies and the improvisational nature of jazz, he seeks to create a vibrant dialogue between these distinct musical worlds. His work has been featured in official school press across China, highlighting his commitment to inspiring the next generation of musicians through cross-cultural collaboration and forward-thinking pedagogy.
As a member of the Longy faculty, Liu continues to mentor students, curate performance opportunities, and lead recruitment efforts, all while championing a more global and inclusive vision of music education. His international engagements reflect a deep dedication to bridging cultural divides and enriching the global music community.
Liu’s efforts resonate deeply in a country where jazz is still emerging as both an academic and artistic discipline. By introducing concepts such as open improvisation, small ensemble interaction, and contemporary composition practices, he not only equips students with new technical tools, but also encourages them to discover their own artistic voices. His workshops often explore the emotional and philosophical dimensions of jazz, connecting its expressive potential with Chinese cultural values such as introspection and balance—ultimately creating a truly bilingual language of sound. This cross-pollination of ideas is helping to shift how jazz is perceived in China: not as an imported genre, but as a living, evolving medium for creative expression and cultural innovation.
Sichuan Conservatory of Music - link
Xi’an Music Conservatory - link
Guangzhou University - link
Zinghai Music Conservatory - link
