A University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) PhD student has performed on China Media Group’s flagship television programme Songs from the Heart Dedicated to the Party, showcasing the pipa against the dramatic backdrop of Hukou Waterfall.
Tang Shiyu, who is pursuing a PhD in International Communications, joined a group of young musicians for the nationally televised performance. Already an accomplished performer with appearances on several major television programmes, Tang credits her doctoral studies at UNNC with broadening her artistic vision beyond technical mastery.
Through her research into using contemporary technologies to revitalise cultural heritage and academic exchanges at the University of Nottingham Malaysia, Tang has explored new ways of connecting traditional Chinese music with global audiences. Collaborating with international musicians and performing works ranging from Chinese folk music to Les Misérables has reinforced her belief that the pipa is not only a symbol of Chinese culture, but also a powerful medium for cross-cultural dialogue.
“As I complete my PhD, the international perspective and confidence I gained at UNNC will stay with me wherever I perform,” Tang said.
Published on 02 July 2026