Strings across cultures: Weiwei’s enduring musical journey

A rare Chinese musical instrument, a multicultural musical journey and an audience drawn into the rhythm of the performance made for a memorable evening at Imli Sarai in Hyderabad.

Chinese-born musician Weiwei, accompanied by Hyderabad-based band ‘Bloomers’, mesmerised listeners with the enchanting sounds of the ‘Yangqin’, a traditional hammered dulcimer with 145 strings that traces its origins to instruments introduced to China’s southern coast through Middle Eastern trade routes in the 17th century. The concert was a celebration of music without borders. Weiwei surprised the audience by effortlessly moving from a Bengali melody to ‘Beautiful Africa’, demonstrating the remarkable versatility of the Yangqin. The atmosphere became even more engaging when rhythm musician Natasha distributed handmade percussion instruments among audience members, encouraging them to join the performance and become part of the musical experience. What made the concert particularly remarkable was Weiwei’s return to the stage after a long absence. Although she retired from the professional music circuit nearly fifteen years ago, her performance displayed the confidence, precision and artistry of a musician who had never stepped away from the spotlight.

Weiwei’s musical journey began when she was just three years old. “My father wanted me to learn music,” she recalls. “He was not a musician, but he was a passionate listener. He believed music would give me a meaningful future. My father is Chinese and my mother is Japanese, and both encouraged my artistic interests from a very young age.”

Her talent soon earned recognition. China has a highly structured system for nurturing artistic talent, and Weiwei was selected to study at the prestigious China Conservatory of Music with government support. “The support for music and arts in China is tremendous,” she says. “Only students with strong potential are selected for advanced training. I was fortunate to receive my education free of cost.”

During her years at the conservatory, Weiwei studied alongside Peng Liyuan, the celebrated soprano and folk singer who later became the wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping. “We were students together,” she says with a smile. At the age of eighteen, Weiwei moved to Japan and expanded her musical horizons. She performed with orchestras across Europe, recorded albums and explored a variety of genres. “I can play classical, pop and fusion music. I have also performed Western classical works. The Yangqin blends beautifully with many styles of music.”

Yet mastering the instrument remains a challenge. “The Yangqin has 145 strings, and tuning it is extremely demanding,” she explains. “Even slight changes in temperature or humidity can alter the sound. Before every performance, considerable time is spent ensuring the instrument is perfectly tuned.”

Having experienced both the rewards and struggles of a musical career, Weiwei believes artists need stronger support systems. “Passion keeps musicians going, but opportunities are still limited. Governments and private organisations should create more performance spaces and provide funding. Musicians should be free to focus on their art rather than constantly worrying about financial survival.”

As the final notes resonated through Imli Sarai, Weiwei’s performance stood as a testament to the enduring power of music. Through the delicate sounds of the Yangqin, she bridged cultures, generations and continents, reminding audiences that music remains one of humanity’s most universal languages.