The 22nd edition of Music China will take centre stage tomorrow at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, drawing around 1,700 exhibitors from 28 countries and regions for an extensive showcase of musical instruments from 22 – 25 October. The fair will highlight advanced technologies and equipment under the thematic focus of ‘Tomorrow’s Music’ in Hall N3, while also introducing a new product category that explores the intersection of music and well-being. Diverse product displays will be complemented by a rich fringe programme focusing on the technological evolution and cross-sector applications of music in emerging fields, including wellness and the senior economy.
Ms Judy Cheung, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, shared her enthusiasm and vision ahead of the fair: “This edition marks a significant step in Music China’s progression, enabling participants to navigate the latest global industry trends and discover new growth opportunities. From the pioneering ‘Tomorrow’s Music’ space to our immersive wellness offerings, we have designed a dynamic platform that delivers exceptional opportunities for partnerships and discoveries. By blending business, education, and cultural exchange, we aim to inspire innovation and unlock new possibilities for all participants.”
The 2025 fair will further solidify its position as a global meeting point for the music industry, uniting the community for four days of intensive networking, deal-making, and creative exchange. Country pavilions from Australia, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK will present the unique music culture and craftsmanship of their homelands. Adding to the global appeal is a mix of debuting and returning exhibitors from Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Macau, Romania, Sweden, Taiwan, and the US.
This global representation is also represented by a comprehensive product portfolio ranging from exquisite traditional and contemporary instruments to the latest AI-powered smart devices. Notable participants include industry leaders such as ABRSM, AIAIAI, Algam, Amati, BAM, Bluethner, Bose, Central Music, Cremona Violin Store, Fazioli, Fender, Focal, G7th, Godin, Gretsch, Henri Selmer Paris, Ibanez, Korg, Martin, M-Audio, Marigaux, Marshall, Moog, Orange, Pearl River, Petrof, Pioneer DJ, PRS, Salvi, Samick, Schecter, Seiko, Seiler, Soundking, Steingraeber, Suhr, Tama, Taylor, Thomastik, and Yamaha. A notable segment of violin manufacturers will celebrate European traditions by showcasing masterful craftsmanship from France, Germany, and Italy.
Broader exhibitor lineup for futuristic music technology and healing instruments
Music China 2025 will highlight strategic growth areas that reflect the industry’s evolving landscape. Leading the way is the thematic focus of ‘Tomorrow’s Music’ in Hall N3, set to serve as the epicentre of innovative equipment and technologies. This dedicated space will showcase the latest music production software, recording equipment, and smart devices from over 90 leading exhibitors and brands, including AMS Neve, Antelope Audio, Beyerdynamic, Dynaudio, Focusrite, Genelec, JBL, Native Instruments, PreSonus, RME, Shure, Sony, Steinberg, and TASCAM.
Additionally, fairgoers can expect to discover new music healing instruments in Hall E3 and beyond. Featured companies include Cactus, showcasing seed shakers, shaman drums, and cactus rainsticks; VibeMend, specialising in crystal singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks; Langfang Shengda Rundong, offering varied percussion instruments including marimbas, tambourines, and shakers; Raysen Music, focused on handpans; and Jinan Jusheng Musical Instrument, specialising in cymbals and gongs.
Vibrant fringe events shed light on technology and wellness trends
Music China’s extensive fringe programme offers a wealth of opportunities for professional development and public engagement. Exploring emerging technological and wellness trends, the fair’s varied events – including dedicated forums, workshops, and demonstrations – are designed to delve deeply into these evolving sectors.
The highly anticipated Industry Forum will serve as a premier knowledge-sharing platform, providing professional insights into the business and technological landscape of the music industry. Alongside leading speakers, this year’s sessions include a keynote speech by Mr Shicheng Wang, President of the China Musical Instrument Association, and a themed talk by Mr John Mlynczak, President and CEO of NAMM, delving into the market outlook in China and the US, respectively. The forum will culminate with a panel discussion titled ‘Trends, Prospects, and Breakthroughs: Shaping the New Future of the MI Industry’, exploring strategies and opportunities for industry upgrades.
Additionally, a presentation titled ‘AI 2.0: Breaking Through to a New Future’, under How-to Sessions, will be delivered by Mr Ray Williams, NAMM Board Member and President of Music Marketing Inc from Canada, examining the practical applications of AI in the music industry and its potential to transform product innovation and market strategies.
Given the undeniable influence of technology on modern music, the Future Music Technology and International MIDI Forum on MIDI Technology Application and Development will feature esteemed speakers including Mr Athan Billias and Mr Andrew Mee from the MIDI Association, who will deliver keynotes on the development and application of the MIDI 2.0 standard. The forum will also host presentations by local innovators on topics such as deep learning in computational musicology and the revolution in smart instrument design powered by high-performance chips, among others.
Extending the dialogue into the rising wellness market, the inaugural Global Forum on Music, AI and Health, supported by the UNU Global AI Network, will present how intelligent music healing can promote physical and mental well-being, tapping into new opportunities in the healing economy era. Guest speakers feature experts from China and beyond, including Ms Veronika Morscher and Ms Coretta Kurth, senior lecturers at The University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna; and Mr Yuncheng Wu, Director of Department of Neurology at Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.
In addition, the newly launched Music and Wellness+ programme endeavours to explore the potential of musical instruments in therapeutic applications and their market relevance in holistic wellness. Interactive workshops, case studies, and demonstrations will showcase the applications of music in dance therapy, emotional regulation, and other settings, providing practical insights into this growing trend.
As part of the music healing series, Golden Harmonies: A Musical Journey for Seniors explores expanding opportunities in the silver economy, through tailored workshops and expert-led sessions for seniors and elderly care professionals. Highlighted sessions include:
“Golden years in motion, healing through music” – the integrated application of functional eurhythmics in music therapy for the elderly: led by music therapist Ms Ying Xia, this session will guide participants through the interplay of music and body movement as an intervention for addressing physical and cognitive decline. It incorporates rhythm training and traditional folk music to help the elderly enhance physical coordination, cognitive function, and social interaction.
Music in the prime of life – a stroll down memory lane: conducted by Professor Kyung-Sook Kim, Director of the Music Therapy Department at Hansei University Graduate School and President of the Korean Music Therapy Association, this session will explore theories and techniques for enhancing cognitive function and emotional wellness in the elderly through tailored music activities.
Meanwhile, various visitors can gain hands-on expertise at the Advanced Piano Tuning Training Seminar and Violin-Making Workshop, immerse in traditional sounds at the Reviving Ancient Melodies: A Celebration of China’s Musical Roots cultural festival, enjoy inspirational Master Classes, and have fun at the outdoor Never-Ending Music – Live Shows. Community favourites, such as the performance by Shanghai Little Musicians and the interactive Drum Circle, will also provide engaging experiences for music lovers of all ages and skill levels.
Music China is organised by Messe Frankfurt, the China Musical Instrument Association and Shanghai Intex Exhibition Co Ltd.