The Lin Yao Ji Music Foundation of China (LYJ Music Foundation) was established in 2010 in memory of Professor Lin Yao Ji, whose moral and artistic virtues, unassuming life style, and unique teaching principles nurtured and influenced some of today’s finest violinists and musicians, as well as fuelled the ascent of contemporary Chinese artists onto the global stage. 

Lin Yao Ji was more than just a violin professor. He was a philosopher and a visionary who imparted lessons in life to his students. His teachings were not only narrowly focused on perfecting technique, but also about instilling an understanding and appreciation for music and the role it plays in life.

In remembrance of Lin Yao Ji’s life-long work, the LYJ Music Foundation aspires to continue and broaden his legacy, which is a meaningful and fitting way to commemorate an accomplished teaching career that spanned over 40 years at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. We believe that music teaches us key values of leadership, collaboration, respect for nature, and creativity, all of which are essential qualities that extend beyond the studio. It can also help develop individual qualities of self-confidence, discipline, sensitivity for things around us, respect for diversity, and a deeper appreciation of the culture and arts. Having a thriving cultural engine adds to the diversity and depth of society, and may help provide innovative solutions to its needs.

The LYJ Music Foundation also believes that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to learn about classical music, whether it be giving a young clarinettist the opportunity to fulfil his dream, or providing a budding composer with a platform to share his creation, or even just sharing the joys and wonders of Bach, Mozart, Rachmaninov with someone who does not play a musical instrument. In this respect, our work is not just about nurturing a crop of world-class musicians. We also aim to bring classical music into everyone’s life by promoting the accessibility and appreciation of classical music to the broader public.

This, however, is not something we can accomplish alone. In rallying individuals and organizations from both private and public sectors who share our passion for making a positive impact on the world through music, the LYJ Music Foundation hopes to influence the development of music education by instilling values to be passed on from generation to generation.