Musicians from around the world visit Hangzhou's Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City and Liangzhu Museum on Nov 25. [Photo/chinanews.com]

Musicians from around the world visited Hangzhou's Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City and Liangzhu Museum on Nov 25, where they delved into the depths of Chinese civilization and discovered inspiration for cross-cultural musical innovation.

Swiss musician Xavier Bouvier greeted a reenactor of a Liangzhu ruler with a bow and warm Chinese words, embodying the spirit of cultural exchange. Argentine educator Guillermo Wilhelm Leuhelmann, while polishing a jade bird disc, marveled at the intricate artistry of Liangzhu jade and noted its potential to inspire musical innovation.

Guillermo highlighted the importance of deep cultural understanding for artistic growth, sharing how he once incorporated the Chinese erhu into Argentine music for a cross-cultural performance.

For Liu Jian, a New Zealand-based dean of music with Chinese ancestry, the visit to Liangzhu was a source of pride. "China's rich history serves as a beacon for the present," he said, adding that he aims to share his experience blending Maori and Western classical music during the forum.

When asked about the musical essence of Liangzhu, Bobby Borg, a professor at USC's Thornton School of Music, described it as "emotional and intense". He suggested combining traditional and modern elements, as seen in the evolution of country and hip-hop music, to amplify Liangzhu culture's global resonance.

The musicians' visit reflects Liangzhu's role as a cradle of civilization and a bridge for creative exchanges, where history meets innovation to inspire the world.