The 10th “World Chinese Bel Canto Vocal Competition” organized by NTD Television kicked off on August 29, 2025, at the Merkin Hall of Kaufman Music Center in Manhattan, New York.
The competition aims to promote the pure and traditional art of bel canto, spreading the values of purity, goodness, and beauty through vocal music. It also provides valuable opportunities for participants from around the world to exchange and improve their skills.
Following the preliminary rounds on that day, 19 contestants successfully advanced to the semi-finals. One of the participants from New York, Liu Erdong, shared that this was his second time competing in NTD’s competition.
Reflecting on his previous experience, Liu mentioned that due to limited preparation time and lack of competition experience, he fell short of his expectations in the past and did not make it to the next round. However, after a year of hard work, he made significant progress in his vocal abilities and developed a deeper passion for singing. Liu Erdong openly shared his competition journey.
At first, Liu felt that despite his efforts, he struggled to see improvements in his vocal technique. He admitted to facing challenges in identifying and solving issues with his singing without a clear standard for evaluation. Seeking guidance from a renowned mentor, Liu eventually had a breakthrough in his understanding of vocal artistry.
Using a metaphor, Liu likened the human body to a musical instrument, where the vocal cords are akin to strings, breath as the bow, and the oral and nasal cavities as the resonance chamber. He expressed his desire to become a proficient instrument for delivering beautiful music.
During the competition, Liu performed a piece written by Taiwanese calligrapher and educator Mr. Yu Youren, titled “Yearning for Home,” resonating with his personal sense of displacement in a foreign land.
For Liu, whether speaking or singing, it is about expressing thoughts and emotions. He carefully selects songs that he connects with emotionally, focusing on conveying sentiments of melancholy. Despite being introverted, Liu finds a strong desire to express himself on stage.
The selection of repertoire plays a crucial role in his performance. Songs that do not align with his style or capabilities are discarded, emphasizing the importance of choosing pieces that suit his strengths.
While nervousness inevitably creeps in during performances, Liu finds joy in the combination of pressure and excitement. He believes that even seasoned performers face challenges in competitions, and overcoming these hurdles brings immense satisfaction.
Grateful for the platform provided by NTD Television, Liu appreciates the opportunity to showcase his talent internationally. He acknowledges the shift from practicing at home, where nerves are absent, to performing under the spotlight, where managing anxiety becomes a key focus.
Overcoming his nervousness during the competition, Liu increasingly savors the stage experience, allowing him to adjust the pace of his performance for comfort. He credits his piano teacher for adapting to his rhythm and creating a harmonious performance environment.
Post-performance, Liu seeks feedback from the audience to identify areas for improvement. He values constructive criticism and strives to enhance his future performances based on audience reactions.
With a background in architecture, Liu emphasizes the interconnectedness of culture and art. Drawing parallels between music and architecture, he highlights their emotional and historical significance, intertwining with cultural heritage.