Expat's musical performance draws crowds in Huaqiangbei
Writer: Wang Jingli | Editor: Zhang Zhiqing | From: Original | Updated: 2024-10-09
Video and photos by Lin Songtao
Rainy weather didn’t dampen Don Rechtman’s enthusiasm to stage a music performance in Huaqiangbei, Futian District, recently for National Day celebrations. The rain also didn’t deter the crowd’s interest.
On the afternoon of Sept. 23, Rechtman, a musician from the U.S., performed two piano pieces, including an improvised composition and the famous Chinese melody "Farewell," alongside his friend Xiong Ying for a singing performance.
A passerby interacts with Don Rechtman in Huaqiangbei, Futian District on Sept. 23.
To create a short piece of music, Rechtman invited visitors at the public piano to choose from a selection of notes. He then used the four notes picked randomly by the audience to improvise, incorporating Chinese musical expressions.
“With National Day approaching, I wanted to reflect the spirit of the Chinese people and the essence of the holiday. This is a day of creation. I have the privilege of adding my own small contribution to celebrate the occasion,” Rechtman said.
A local resident, surnamed Chen, praised Rechtman’s improvisational skills and his musical talent. A music teacher, identified by his surname You, was also captivated by Rechtman’s piano playing. You, who joined Rechtman for a short performance, remarked on the joy of seeing an international friend participate in local street performances and create music together.
Rechtman plays the piano in Huaqiangbei.
This was the first time Rechtman had performed at Huaqiangbei, a location he likened to a new Silicon Valley concept on a global scale.
"Looking around, I see people from nearly every country here; every language makes this a truly international space. It's a great melting pot of technology, humanity, and music. Different people stop by to play this piano. We have virtuoso pianists and amateur players who use single-finger notes. Music is said to be a universal language, and the sounds we create are that language. Each piece is like a different dialect or language from various countries,” Rechtman explained.
Two expat passers-by chat and shake hands with Rechtman.
The performance also attracted many expatriates, who expressed their appreciation for the music.
Moe Emam from Egypt, who runs a company in Huaqiangbei, frequently passes by and was surprised to see an expat playing piano there.
“His music is truly amazing, and he plays exceptionally well. I want to thank him for the beautiful experience,” Emam said.
Marina Vilchinskaia, another expat audience on site, told Shenzhen Daily, “I am very pleased that Huaqiangbei’s electronic world has beautifully integrated street pianos to host musical performances, drawing crowds to enjoy the music and take a break from the bustling market. One such performance featured American Don playing the piano and singing a song dedicated to National Day. His and his companion’s singing was enchanting and powerful, resonating throughout Huaqiangbei and surprising passersby on the street.”