Sound of Harmony Exhibition: Masterpieces of Chinese Music at the National Museum
Tomorrow, Saturday, September 28, the eyes of culture and heritage enthusiasts will turn to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, as the Saudi National Museum its doors to host a unique cultural event entitled “The Sound of Harmony Exhibition .” Organized by the Museums Authority in collaboration with the National Museum of China, this exhibition serves as a cornerstone for the preliminary and celebratory events of the Saudi-Chinese Year of Culture 2025 , embodying the depth of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
Ancient historical roots and cultural ties
This exhibition is more than just a fleeting event; it is a revival of a long legacy of cultural exchange that linked the Arabian Peninsula with the Far East via Silk Road . For centuries, these two civilizations exchanged goods, ideas, and art, and today, “The Sound of Harmony” reinterprets this exchange in the universal language of music. The exhibition reflects the mutual appreciation between two ancient cultures with deep historical roots, where the wisdom of the Chinese East meets the authenticity of Arab heritage in the heart of Riyadh.
Musical treasures that tell the philosophy of the universe
The exhibition takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through thousands of years, showcasing the evolution of Chinese music, which has never been merely a form of entertainment but a cornerstone of Confucian philosophy and a means of self-cultivation and achieving harmony between humanity and nature. The exhibition is scheduled to run until December 1, 2025, offering researchers and visitors alike a long-term opportunity to explore rare artifacts.
The exhibits include exceptional artifacts, ranging from bone flute, with which early humans imitated the sounds of birds and wind, through the Bronze Age, characterized by drums and massive percussion instruments used in imperial rituals, to delicate stringed instruments such as the guzhen and the pipa. These instruments tell the story of the evolution of craftsmanship and musical thought, which has always sought to embody the concept of "harmony" (He) in Chinese culture.
Vision 2030 and the promotion of cultural diplomacy
Hosting this event takes on added significance within the framework of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which places culture at the heart of its strategies to improve quality of life and foster openness to the world. Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Culture and the Museums Authority are working to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global hub for arts and culture, and to build bridges of communication with major cultural powers.
The selection of 2025 as the Year of Saudi-Chinese Culture is a clear indication of the growing bilateral relations, where cooperation extends beyond economic and political aspects to include intellectual and cultural exchange. This exhibition is expected to attract both local and international visitors, boosting cultural tourism and enriching the capital's art scene.
Immersive interactive experience
The Museums Authority has invited the public to experience this immersive sensory journey, with tickets available for booking through the Webbook platform. The exhibition is more than just viewing silent artifacts; it's an immersive experience that takes visitors from the rhythmic sounds of ancient drums to the melodious tunes of strings, allowing them to discover how music has served as a bridge to understanding and peace throughout the ages.
