Harmony the uniting force of people

There is no way we can liken the singing competition on China Central Television to Fox TV's popular American Idol show.

With a panel of three judges supported by popular votes, American Idol provides opportunities for mostly amateur singers to rise to stardom as solo singers. Whatever its merits, it is a popular TV show.

In contrast, the CCTV singing contest, broadcast live every night for more than three hours, goes far beyond an open stage for the best Chinese singers under the age of 35 to show off their musical talents, whether they are amateurs or young professionals.