What if robots play traditional Chinese instruments? Well, it is not a distant dream. This fantastic combination has been a big hit!

In celebration of the 110th anniversary of Tsinghua and the 9th anniversary of New Tsinghua Xuetang, a creative concert was held, where musicians shared the stage with Tsinghua's Moja Robot Band.  

Fang Jinlong, a master of traditional Chinese musical instruments, performed musical pieces with three robot musicians of the Moja Robot Band at the New Tsinghua Xuetang. The robot musicians "Yuheng", "Yaoguang," and "Kaiyang" were designed by the team of Associate Professor Dr. Mi Haipeng.

The concert kicked off with Ancient Music, followed by Classical Music, and Music of the Future. In the first part, Mr. Fang played a wide range of traditional Chinese instruments, including the Guqin, Yue, and Hulusi.

In the second part, together with three musicians, Mr. Fang played several classical songs. He also used Chinese instruments to play the music of neighboring countries.

Then came the Moja Robot Band to give a glimpse of the music of the future. They, together with Mr. Fang, gave a flawless performance, playing the melodious masterpiece, "Purple Bamboo Melody." The concert concluded with Mr. Fang performing the classic Pipa song “The Ambush” and the exotic guitar song “Romance de Amor”, which won thunderous applause from the audience.

Thereupon, the main producers Mr. Fang and Dr. Mi, and director Ke Lu shared their inspirations and experiences with the audience.

The high-tech robots clad in traditional Chinese garments played Chinese instruments in a masterly fashion, incorporating modern elements into this traditional Chinese folk concert.

This creative concert was a joint effort of both artists and scientists, and a combination of traditional Chinese music and modern technology, which shed light on the multidisciplinary and creative prospect of campus performances.

Writer: Han Yue

Editors: John Olbrich, Sangeet Sangroula, Liu Shutian