The success of Beijing Central Axis in becoming a World Heritage site has inspired countless artists. In response, pianist Tian Jiaxin, a true Beijinger, has released a new song titled "Here Lies the Central Axis." Combining piano with rap and bamboo clappers, she brings a cross-genre creation to celebrate the inscription. "I especially hope to use my best skills to celebrate the success of Beijing Central Axis in becoming a World Heritage site," Tian Jiaxin said.

The success of Beijing Central Axis in becoming a World Heritage site has inspired countless artists. In response, pianist Tian Jiaxin, a true Beijinger, has released a new song titled "Here Lies the Central Axis." Combining piano with rap and bamboo clappers, she brings a cross-genre creation to celebrate the inscription. "I especially hope to use my best skills to celebrate the success of Beijing Central Axis in becoming a World Heritage site," Tian Jiaxin said.

"I'm very familiar with the central axis; I often visited Tiananmen, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Jingshan Park when I was young," said Tian Jiaxin. Growing up in Ping'anli, the landmarks along the central axis were a significant part of her childhood memories. Even after she went to Manhattan School of Music in the U.S., she made sure to visit the Forbidden City every time she returned to Beijing. "Beijing changes so rapidly, and each return makes me feel that my hometown is particularly beautiful."

Last year, Tian Jiaxin was inspired to write a song about the Beijing Central Axis, aiming for a style that blends Eastern and Western elements. Over the years, she has performed in top concert halls around the world and always includes Chinese pieces in her repertoire. She noticed that foreign audiences mostly know a few Chinese works like "The Yellow River," "Butterfly Lovers," and "Jasmine Flower," and wanted to contribute to the promotion of Chinese culture. The Beijing Central Axis presented an excellent theme and opportunity for this purpose.

"When creating 'Here Lies the Central Axis,' I incorporated a bit of melodies from world-famous tunes at the beginning of the song. Although these fragments are very brief, I believe foreign audiences will find them familiar," Tian Jiaxin said. Additionally, she included music elements unique to Beijing and a rap style popular among young people, telling the story of the central axis and allowing the world to hear a voice from China.

Born into a musical family, Tian Jiaxin began composing and singing from a young age. "Here Lies the Central Axis" is the first piece where she combines piano performance, composition, and singing. Recently, after the initial recording of the song was completed, she eagerly awaited the news of the central axis's inscription as a World Heritage site. "When we heard the news of the central axis's successful inscription, our whole family cheered with joy!" She infused her happiness into this original song, sharing it with the world through the internet, hoping that listeners will be touched and uplifted by the song's joyful mood.

Tian Jiaxin views the Beijing Central Axis not only as her hometown memory and childhood recollection but also as a cultural symbol. In the future, she plans to further arrange the song to enhance its expressiveness. "I hope this song will lead people from all over the world to explore the Beijing Central Axis, allowing the world to hear, see, and feel Chinese culture and experience the charm of Beijing."

Translator: BAI Jing

Reviewer: NIU Lihua