Music echoes through legacy of Qian Mu and Qian Weichang

The Music Room at the former residence of Qian Mu and Qian Weichang. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxixqly]

Tucked away in Qifangqiao village, Xinwu district, Wuxi, the former residence of renowned scholar Qian Mu and celebrated scientist Qian Weichang, offers visitors more than just a glimpse into the lives of these two distinguished figures – it reveals a family tradition where music and culture flourished side by side.

Qian Mu, one of China's foremost scholars of traditional culture, devoted his life to promoting Chinese philosophy and history. His nephew, Qian Weichang, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern Chinese mechanics, achieved international acclaim in science. Despite their different fields, both shared a deep appreciation for traditional Chinese music.

Qian Mu plays the xiao, a Chinese bamboo flute. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxixqly]

Among Qian Mu's favorite instruments was the xiao, a vertical bamboo flute whose mellow tones he found deeply comforting. In his later years, he wrote that whenever he felt lonely, he would play the xiao, describing its haunting sound as transporting him beyond the ordinary world. Even after the age of 70, he regarded playing the instrument as one of the greatest joys of his life.

Today, visitors can experience this musical heritage in the residence's Music Room, where digital technology recreates the family's cherished evening gatherings. Interactive displays bring to life an hour of music enjoyed after dinner: Qian Zhi, Qian Weichang's father, plays the pipa, or Chinese lute, and sheng, a mouth organ; Qian Mu performs on the xiao; two of his brothers contribute with the bamboo flute and erhu, a kind of ancient violin, while the young Qian Weichang keeps the rhythm by striking bowls and wooden clappers.

A Xiju Opera performance is staged at the former residence of Qian Mu and Qian Weichang. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxixqly]

In recent years, the former residence has continued this tradition by hosting concerts and cultural performances that celebrate Chinese music.