Old vinyls reflect modern desire for music

Born and raised in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Luo began his classical piano studies at the age of 4. In 2010, he furthered his education at the University of Arts in Cuba, studying under the legendary Cuban pianist Chucho Valdes, an eight-time Grammy Award winner.

The exhibition also includes a selection of significant historical recordings, such as March of the Volunteers, the Chinese national anthem, recorded at different times, including 1949, 1951 and 1959, and a complete set of Peking in Melody, released by China Record Corporation in 1964 to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The album covers were inscribed by renowned calligrapher Shen Yinmo (1883-1971), with artwork contributed by famous painters such as Qi Baishi (1864-1957) and Pan Tianshou (1897-1971).

Additionally, the exhibition features autographed records by some of China's most famous artists, many of which were signed shortly before their untimely deaths, adding an emotional layer to the collection.

"We want to ensure these fragile pieces of history are not lost to time," says Wu Yiming, co-curator of the exhibition. "Through this exhibition, we hope to reconnect people with a past that still resonates today."

The exhibition brings together records from several historically significant Chinese and foreign record companies, including Columbia, Beka and Pathe. "For many of us today, these names may be unfamiliar, or even unheard of," Wu notes. "Many of these companies were short-lived, but thanks to records as a medium, they've endured."

There is also a featured collection of antique record players. While the records themselves often overshadow their cultural significance, these machines are a testament to the technological advancements that made these sounds possible. Visitors will also find Swiss-made music boxes, radios once used as windows to the world, and other devices that once brought history to life. "These machines are not just relics," says Wu. "They are time machines that allowed the voices of history to live on."

Wu opened his record store, DeFactto, in Beijing's 798 Art Zone nearly 12 years ago. Back then, vinyl records were a niche interest. However, with the global resurgence of vinyl, driven by nostalgia, sound quality, and collectibility, more young Chinese buyers are turning to vinyl.

Wu believes the "vinyl revival" reflects a modern desire to experience music in more diverse ways.

"Compared to streaming, which dominates music distribution today, vinyl still belongs to a niche circle," he observes. "But, unlike in the past, vinyl is becoming more popular with younger audiences, with more variety in content and style."