The soft echo of violins fills the narrow streets of Huangqiao, a modest town nestled in China's Jiangsu Province. Once an unassuming locale, Huangqiao has boldly stepped onto the global stage, now producing one-third of the world's violins and earning the esteemed title of the \\"Cremona of the East.\\"
For centuries, the Italian city of Cremona has been synonymous with masterful violin craftsmanship, the birthplace of legends like Stradivari and Guarneri. Yet, halfway across the globe, Huangqiao has quietly transformed into a modern epicenter for violin manufacturing, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques.
\\"Our town's journey into violin making began several decades ago,\\" says Li Wei, a veteran luthier in Huangqiao. \\"What started as a small workshop has blossomed into an industry that resonates around the world.\\"
The rise of Huangqiao's violin industry is a harmonious blend of cultural appreciation and economic opportunity. Local artisans have embraced the meticulous art of violin making, passing down skills through generations while incorporating advanced technologies to enhance quality and production efficiency.
CGTN reporter Lily Lyu recently visited Huangqiao to delve into the town's flourishing violin scene. \\"Walking through Huangqiao, you can feel the music in the air,\\" Lyu remarks. \\"It's extraordinary to witness how a small town has become integral to the global music community.\\"
Exporting violins to over 70 countries, Huangqiao's instruments are played by beginners and professionals alike. The town's commitment to affordability without sacrificing quality has opened the doors of musical opportunity to countless aspiring musicians worldwide.
Local government support has been instrumental in this crescendo of success. Initiatives to promote skilled craftsmanship, coupled with international trade partnerships, have amplified Huangqiao's global resonance.
\\"We are proud that our violins bring joy to people across the globe,\\" shares Zhang Mei, manager of one of the town's largest violin factories. \\"Each instrument carries a piece of Huangqiao's soul.\\"
The story of Huangqiao is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and global collaboration. As the town continues to innovate and inspire, it stands as a symbol of how local communities can make a global impact, one harmonious note at a time.
Reference(s):
BizFocus Ep.118: China's Huangqiao Town shapes global violin industry
cgtn.com
