YMS Deepens International Partnership with Landmark Visit to Qingdao

Pupils and staff from the Yehudi Menuhin School (YMS) have returned from an unforgettable visit to our sister school, Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao (YMSQ), marking a significant new chapter in the flourishing partnership between the two institutions. 

Taking place from 24 October to 1 November 2026, the visit was both historic and highly successful, offering YMS pupils their first opportunity to perform, collaborate and immerse themselves in the life of one of China's most exciting specialist music schools. 

At the heart of the trip were four public concerts presented on consecutive evenings, each demonstrating the strength of the musical and cultural connections that continue to grow between the two schools. 

The first concert, held at YMSQ, formed part of an International Gala that welcomed members of the Qingdao business community to the campus and celebrated the school's growing role within the city. The following evening, pupils performed in Beijing at a special reception hosted by the UK Ambassador to China at his official residence, showcasing the talents of young musicians from both schools on an international stage. 

Back in Qingdao, the third performance took place at the prestigious Hisense Plaza in the heart of the city. In a memorable highlight, YMSQ’s founding President, the internationally acclaimed violinist Lu Siqing, joined the young performers on stage. The concert also supported local charitable causes, underlining the schools’ shared commitment to using music as a force for positive impact. 

The final concert, held at YMSQ as part of the visit’s closing ceremony, brought together pupils, staff, families and guests in a fitting celebration of everything that had been achieved during the week. 

One of the most striking aspects of all four performances was the spirit of collaboration on display. Each concert featured joint performances by pupils from YMS and YMSQ, showcasing not only their exceptional musicianship but also the friendships and mutual understanding that developed throughout the visit. Audiences also enjoyed a work composed by a former YMS pupil and performed by YMSQ musicians, highlighting the creative links that continue to connect the two schools. 

Beyond the concert platform, the visit offered valuable opportunities for staff and pupils to experience daily life at YMSQ.   

“This visit has been a tremendous success and a powerful affirmation of the partnership between our two schools,” said YMS Headmaster, Robin Harskin. “We were deeply impressed by the warmth of the welcome we received, the outstanding quality of the music-making, and the strong sense of community that exists at YMSQ. It was particularly encouraging to see the school’s commitment to balancing musical excellence with academic achievement, supported by a highly qualified teaching staff and a leadership team whose focus is always on the wellbeing and development of their pupils. 

“YMSQ already enjoys a strong reputation, and this visit has further strengthened the ties between our schools. With values so closely aligned, we feel like two petals of the same flower. Our pupils and staff have returned with lasting memories, new friendships and a genuine sense of shared purpose. We look forward to building on this success through future exchanges, performances and collaborative projects that will continue to enrich the educational experience of young musicians in both the UK and China.”