Milan Night: Art Without Borders
When the final note resonated through the theater, thundering applause marked a historic moment for the "2025 World Peace Culture and Arts Festival"—a heart-to-heart dialogue spanning East and West.
Though the performance ended, the emotion and spark continued backstage. Opera legend Plácido Domingo and Master Shi Wuyue—founder of the Wuyue Symphony Orchestra and a revered Zen master—met for a sincere and profound conversation.
Maestro Domingo unreservedly praised: "Master Shi Wuyue is an outstanding musician and conductor, and an exceptional humanitarian."
Speaking of the Wuyue Symphony Orchestra, he added passionately: "Performing with you was truly magnificent—what a perfect orchestra! I sincerely hope for more collaborations in the future, to continue this beautiful artistic journey together!"
This was not only an accolade for a single performance but the highest tribute to the vision of fostering mutual understanding and inner peace through music.
The following is the original dialogue:
What are your thoughts on Master Shi Wuyue?
"He is remarkable. First, as a person—I already knew him before—he is an outstanding musician and an exceptional humanitarian. Therefore, I look forward to us taking our collaboration to the world.
It was an extraordinary evening. The audience was delighted, and you are an exceptional orchestra. They felt you were their musical ambassadors. It was truly beautiful!"
What is your impression of the Wuyue Symphony Orchestra?
"Yes, the Wuyue Symphony Orchestra is wonderful. Yesterday, we performed together a variety of works in different styles. Though challenging, the entire experience was beautiful.
So, I hope for opportunities in the future—if you invite me, I would be willing not only to sing but also to conduct. Perhaps we could collaborate on a concert, a symphonic performance, or any other form of event.
We could continue working together like this because the music is beautiful. We bring music to people, to all who truly love it.
It is truly special, especially during these difficult times, to see so many in the audience genuinely enjoying the performance last night. That is remarkable. So, we must keep collaborating."
What message or blessings would you like to share with Master Wuyue for the future?
"First, we should continue the kind of collaboration we had yesterday. Performing with you was beautiful and joyful—the entire team is exceptional.
In the future, perhaps we could collaborate on symphonic works or other forms, exploring more diverse ways to create music together.
May your journey be safe, and may everyone stay healthy. During your travels, take care with your diet—I know long trips can be exhausting.
This has been a truly beautiful time. Lastly, I want to say—you are an outstanding conductor, truly exceptional. You know, you are really extraordinary!"
Beyond the seamless harmony on stage, every exchange and shared smile between Domingo and Master Shi Wuyue backstage glowed with the convergence of art and soul.
These precious moments of interaction not only warmed the Milan night but will also endure throughout the journey of the World Culture and Arts Festival, lingering in our hearts.
Let us revisit those sincere and moving moments through the lens—
悟
Master Wuyue and Domingo bidding farewell, expressing mutual admiration, and agreeing to future collaborations, including a visit to Xizu Temple
The beauty of art lies not only under the spotlight but in every moment of heartfelt connection. These captured instances are a warm, transcultural force that speaks directly to the soul, reminding us that when music becomes a bridge, the world can resonate as one.
We look forward to the next encounter, continuing to illuminate each other's paths with art.