SHANGHAI, July 9 (WSH) — As the midday sun filtered through the Garden Hall of Huashan Hospital on July 8, the soothing strains of an Erhu filled the air. World-renowned Erhu artist Ma Xiaohui delivered a moving “musical mindfulness healing lecture-concert,” aimed at honoring the hospital’s medical workers and promoting the therapeutic power of music.
A Lunchtime Tribute to Healers
The concert opened with a heartfelt rendition of Anita Mui’s Woman Flower, capturing the attention of dozens of doctors and healthcare workers during their lunch break. With her signature blend of East and West, Ma’s Erhu playing offered a moment of calm and emotional connection. Since 2008, she has brought similar music therapy sessions to audiences across the globe, believing deeply in music’s capacity to heal.
“Music is the language of the soul,” Ma said during the performance. “The Erhu’s two strings are like vocal cords—they can express emotion and bring peace to the heart.” Pieces like Spring River on a Moonlit Night and Greensleeves transformed the atmosphere as weary medical staff relaxed visibly, some smiling through tears.
A Symphony of Science and Soul
Joining Ma Xiaohui on stage were members of her trio, “Erhu Three Walking Together,” performing a diverse repertoire including South American classic Manana, the Erhu-guitar fusion piece Shanghai Dreams, and the romantic Ni Shi Wo De Mei Gui.
American psychology professor Dr. Tim Kelly, also in attendance, explained the neuroscience behind the performance. “Music activates neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphins,” he noted, “which reduce anxiety and elevate mood—making music an increasingly valued tool in clinical care worldwide.”
Doctors Join the Ensemble
The healing concert was co-hosted by Huashan Hospital’s labor union and the Ma Xiaohui Special Fund for Culture and Arts under the Shanghai Song Qingling Foundation. The event featured special guest performances by hospital staff themselves—Dr. Bao Liwen on Pipa, and young Erhu enthusiast Dr. Guan Tianshu, who joined Ma for a spirited rendition of Horse Racing. A closing poetry recital brought the event to a joyful and poetic finale.
One doctor shared, “I thought I’d just enjoy some music, but I ended up feeling deeply touched.” Another added, “I was exhausted before lunch, but this music gave me strength to finish the day.”
Continuing the Harmony
Ma Xiaohui, dressed in a striking hand-painted “rainbow dress” by artist Chen Weijia, described her performance as “a special connection formed through sound.” She and her team plan to continue collaborating with Huashan Hospital to integrate music mindfulness practices into future medical healing programs.
（Source: JieFang Daily)
