Beijing solidified its position as a hub for classical music excellence this week as the 22nd Khachaturian International Cello Competition concluded on December 27, 2025. The event saw young Chinese cellists Li Shuyu, Hao Haoran, and Wang Wanglele emerge as top winners, highlighting China's rising prominence in global classical music circles.
Held at the China National Opera House from December 22-27, the competition brought together musicians from multiple countries for rigorous artistic challenges. Co-organized by Armenian and Chinese cultural institutions, the event commemorated deepening cultural cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), now in its 12th year.
Since its 2023 debut in Beijing – timed to honor both the 120th anniversary of composer Aram Khachaturian's birth and the BRI's 10th anniversary – the competition has become a vital platform for Armenia-China cultural exchange. This year's edition featured collaborative performances between prize-winners and the Armenian National Symphony Orchestra under conductor Sergey Smbatyan.
Organizers emphasized the competition's dual role in nurturing young talent and strengthening international artistic ties. With support from both nations' cultural ministries and embassies, the event underscores how music continues to bridge civilizations amid growing China-Armenia cooperation.
As audiences worldwide streamed the closing concert, the competition reaffirmed its mission to empower emerging artists while celebrating Khachaturian's enduring legacy – particularly his innovative fusion of Armenian folk traditions with classical forms that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
