In 2019, prior to the widespread disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic which put a halt to most international travel, an extraordinary event took place. The Juilliard School, renowned worldwide for its excellence in music education, opened its second campus in Binhai New Area. This Chinese economic zone is located a staggering 10,000km away from its original home in New York's Lincoln Center.

From Sterile to Hi-Tech

Back then, the area on the outskirts of Tianjin in northern China seemed as barren as the night sky. It was in sharp contrast to the vibrant energy of Manhattan. This place was primarily known for being the site of a tragic 2015 explosion and housing an enormous library that was more Instagram-worthy than educational. However, today, Binhai New Area has witnessed a remarkable transformation. It now boasts a population of over 2 million and has emerged as a thriving hi-tech industrial hub. The unassuming address of this area conceals the fact that the world's most famous music school received top-level political and financial support from its Chinese partners. This support was aimed at promoting Sino-US cultural exchange and was further enhanced by the blessing of China's first lady, Peng Liyuan. In 2015, she was the honored guest when the plans for the school were announced in New York.

The Impressive Campus Facilities

The 350,000 sq ft (32,500 square metre) building designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro is a marvel. It houses the Tianjin Juilliard School and features a 687-seat concert hall, a 295-seat recital hall, and a 221-seat theatre. These facilities provide an ideal environment for students to immerse themselves in the world of music. The design of the campus ensures that students have access to state-of-the-art amenities and performance spaces. It is a testament to the school's commitment to providing the best possible education and training for its students.

Student Opportunities and Collaborations

Students at the Tianjin Juilliard School have the unique opportunity to receive visits from teachers from the New York campus. This allows them to benefit from the expertise and knowledge of renowned instructors. Additionally, they have access to the resources and facilities of the partner institution, the Tianjin Conservatory of Music. This collaboration provides a rich and diverse learning experience for the students. They are able to explore different musical traditions and styles, and gain a broader perspective on music. The combination of these two institutions creates a dynamic and stimulating learning environment that prepares students for successful careers in the music industry.

The Pandemic as an Opportunity

The pandemic presented a very specific opportunity for the Tianjin Juilliard School to showcase its strength and unity. Despite the challenges posed by the global health crisis, the school was able to maintain its operations and continue to provide quality education to its students. The transition to online learning and the use of advanced technology allowed students to stay connected with their teachers and peers. It also demonstrated the school's adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of international collaboration and cultural exchange, and the Tianjin Juilliard School has played a crucial role in this regard.