Globalization is not new to the field of classical music. Performers and composers have traveled since the beginning of the profession. In the middle ages, minstrels traveled from town to town providing entertainment and news, Mozart traveled throughout Europe as a prodigy, Dvorak traveled to America and wrote his New World Symphony. Since the mid 20th century, air travel has made the performing arts a worldwide profession - soloists, conductors, chamber music groups, and entire orchestras move easily from one continent to another. Several Asian countries have completed the gigantic leap from consumers of classical music to leaders in the art form.

The existence of a summer academy and festival for outstanding string talent in China is long overdue - Chinese musicians - talented, well trained, and disciplined - have excelled on the world's stages as well as in Chinese and western music schools for more than 20 years. China's economic progress, the enormous interest in classical music, the magnitude and proliferation of great talents - all make the Great Wall International Music Academy a natural fit.

I welcome my colleagues from China, other Asian countries, from North America and Europe to this unique encounter of talent. We all share the love of music, the belief in human potential, the passion for learning, and the welfare of young artists.

I also welcome our guest artists for master classes and concerts. Through their artistry, they bring an important long range perspective to our young talented students.

My special thanks go to Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation in Houston. Their early support has made this dream become a reality. Many thanks to Cho Chang Tsung Foundation of Education in Taiwan, the College-Conservatory of Music and Asia Pacific Arts Management who are enthusiastic supporters.

I look forward to welcoming you in the beautiful Grand Epoch City in July and August!

 

Kurt Sassmannshaus

 

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