The Influence of Soviet Musicians on Education at the Shanghai Conservatory

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of various aspects of the activities and influence of Soviet musicians on the musical culture and education of Shanghai. The author comes to the conclusion that Russian musicians played an important role in the formation of the musical life of Shanghai and in general of the whole of China. Russian and European cultural and performing traditions were promoted by them, works of Russian and European authors were distributed, and their students were introduced to the masterpieces of world musical art. The traditions laid down by Russian musical figures at the beginning of the twentieth century were continued and strengthened by Soviet specialists who brought up a whole galaxy of outstanding musicians in China. The strengthening of Russian-Chinese relations after 1949 played a special role. Many Soviet musicians were sent to China by agreement of the countries. Among them were outstanding teachers and musicians: D. M. Serov, K.N. Dmitrevskaya, S. G. Delitsiev, N. N. Delitsieva, F. G. Arzamanov, I. G. Beridze, etc. They helped to develop curricula and programs, gave lectures, reports, held consultations and conducted teaching and organizational activities. The novelty of the article lies in the fact that for the first time it provides information about the work of the listed Soviet musicians and analyzes their influence on education at the Shanghai Conservatory.