Mr. Tong Tai was a towering figure in Qingjiang Province's music scene.
Never mind his position in the Musicians' Association—his résumé alone was intimidatingly impressive!
A formally trained graduate of the China Conservatory of Music in the last century, he had won major prizes in music competitions both at home and abroad.
Unlike many so-called "musicians" who relied on seniority and "social grace awards," Tong Tai had become a renowned composer through several timeless musical works and music competitions. Many performers had sought him out to compose for them.
Yet this veteran artist had managed to keep up with young people's trends and culture. He regularly updated his Weibo and occasionally commented on modern "Pop Music," earning the adoration of netizens.
So how widely recognized were his opinions throughout Qingjiang Province?
Put it this way.
If Tong Tai happened to be drinking with someone in his little courtyard, got drunk, swayed his head, and casually pointed at a name:
"That so-and-so who plays piano? He's good!"
Then by the next day, that so-and-so's value would immediately skyrocket. Countless music lovers would take notice, and news outlets would soon come knocking for interviews!
Yet two days earlier, this very influential man had posted a new Weibo.
His words revealed the old gentleman's excitement:
"I haven't listened to classical music in a long time. I never expected that, in 2024, I would still see such a vibrant young classical performer. I'd like to recommend this performer to everyone: Gan Yan Yu. Her cello is truly beautiful. And the piano accompanying her—beautiful! My student showed me the recording today. It was so good!"
—So good!
Not merely "good," but "so good"!
It was rare to hear Old Tong give such high praise!
For a time, countless netizens flooded the replies:
Really? Old Tong