On May 12, 2016, Principal Liu Jian was invited to appear on Beijing Television’s Youth Channel, where he joined host Yi Jing and international friends from the "Beijing Guest" community to discuss the topic, "Should children learn piano?" Joining the discussion was also the esteemed Hollywood Emmy Award-winning composer, Master Xia Tai. During the recording, the "China Magic Finger—Young Pianist Team" featuring young pianists Wang Keke (10 years old), Wang Kuo (11 years old), and Jiang Zekai (13 years old) delivered a captivating performance and had the honor of receiving personal guidance from Master Xia Tai on-site!
"Beijing Guest" is a premier cultural exchange program launched by Beijing Television (BTV) on its Youth Channel, produced by Xu Jian. The name "Beijing Guest" draws inspiration from the renowned American magazine, "The New Yorker." The show features a dynamic mix of international fashion icons, creating a talk show that blends cutting-edge global perspectives, trendy topics, and passionate performances, establishing a new television landmark for Beijing as a global city.
Preview: The episode featuring "China Magic Finger" will air on June 1st at 10:00 PM on BTV’s Youth Channel. Parents and friends are warmly invited to tune in!
▲Mentor Liu Jian and "China Magic Finger" with Master Xia Tai at the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest"
▲"China Magic Finger" at the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest"
▲"China Magic Finger" at the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest"
▲"China Magic Finger" at the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest"
▲Guests at the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest"
▲"China Magic Finger" Jiang Zekai performing at the recording
▲"China Magic Finger" Wang Kuo performing at the recording
▲"China Magic Finger" Coco Wang performing at the recording
▲"China Magic Finger" performing a six-hand rendition of "Hungarian Dance"
▲"China Magic Finger" six-hand performance of "Hungarian Dance" (Image 1)
▲"China Magic Finger" six-hand performance of "Hungarian Dance" (Image 2)
▲"China Magic Finger" Wang Kuo backstage
▲"China Magic Finger" Coco Wang backstage (1)
▲"China Magic Finger" Coco Wang backstage (2)
▲"China Magic Finger" Jiang Zekai backstage (1)
▲"China Magic Finger" Jiang Zekai backstage (2)
▲"China Magic Finger" Wang Kuo and Jiang Zekai backstage (3)
▲"China Magic Finger" backstage
Introduction to Master Xia Tai
Xia Tai, a renowned Hollywood film composer, was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and began his film composing career after moving to New York. Known for his captivating melodies and grand orchestral compositions, he has achieved international acclaim.
Master Xia Tai is not only an acclaimed Hollywood composer with numerous awards, including Emmys and Tellys, but also a distinguished concert pianist. He has performed for Swaziland’s King and U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. His song "The Power of One," performed by the famous singer Donna Summer, topped the Billboard charts for eight weeks.
Special thanks to Steinway & Sons
At the recording of BTV's "Beijing Guest," the Steinway pianos used by "China Magic Finger" and Master Xia Tai were the same prestigious instruments designated for performances by the international piano star Lang Lang. Established in 1853, Steinway & Sons is one of the world’s most renowned piano brands, known for its unique qualities and ranking as the top piano maker globally. In 2002, Lang Lang became the most sought-after "Steinway Artist" worldwide.