The sheng, a living relic of three millennia of China’s ritual musical tradition, is the world’s earliest free-reed instrument—through which sounds are activated by airflow and vibrating reeds. After its introduction to Europe, the sheng wielded great impact on the development of global musical instruments. Belonging to the same reed instrument family as the harmonica, clarinet, oboe, accordion and organ, the sheng’s repertoire and style developed very differently because of its cultural roots. The collaboration between the sheng and Western reed instruments showcases humanity’s shared pursuit of musical resonance. Music transcends borders, serving as the most natural “universal language.”

The Endless Sheng – International Reeds Festival conceived by Artistic Director Yan Huichang will be held in-person and online, with Hong Kong as the main stage while other places host associated events. This is a programme that truly combines culture, sports and tourism, fostering deep exchanges between Chinese and Western musical traditions while establishing a new hallmark of “musical diplomacy” for Hong Kong, drawing global music
enthusiasts to experience the charm of East-West musical fusion.

Events

• Endless Sheng, Thousand Reeds in Harmony Marathon 
• International Symposium
• International Chinese Sheng Competition
• Thousand Reeds, One Universe Concert (September 2026)