Zhang Zhang, the first Chinese musician in the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, brings Monaco's musical heritage to Macau
Above Zhang Zhang and the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters at 'Macau for Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau' (Photo: courtesy of Galaxy Macau)
Monaco, she explains, has a 'long history of artistic excellence.' The Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in 1886, ranks among Europe's most prestigious symphony orchestras. The principality also played a pivotal role in supporting the avant-garde, serving as a haven for the exiled Ballets Russes in the early 20th century—bringing together visionaries such as Nijinsky, Debussy, Stravinsky, Picasso and Coco Chanel.
Today, Monaco remains a beacon of cultural excellence. The principality is home to the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, led by Cecilia Bartoli, and the celebrated Ballet de Monte-Carlo. Zhang values the diversity of her performances, which span symphony, opera, ballet and chamber music—and range from grand venues like the Monte Carlo Casino to intimate settings such as retirement homes and hospitals. 'I like bringing the joy of music to those who are no longer able to attend concerts,' she said.
In 2004, following the devastating tsunami in Sri Lanka, where Zhang and the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra performed at a charity concert to raise funds for an impacted fishing village, she launched Zhangomusiq. Its unique operational model ensures that all concert revenue directly supports humanitarian, ecological and educational projects, with production costs covered by corporate partners. The initiative's first event raised funds to rebuild a fishing village—an experience that showed her how music could do more than entertain. Since then, Zhangomusiq has delivered more than 70 concerts and supported projects in 40 countries. The group is currently planning to build two schools for girls in Afghanistan.
In a world often divided, Zhang sees music as a means to foster empathy. 'By listening to each other, we can understand one another better,' she said. 'Classical music is one of the most accessible and universal art forms of our time. Like food, it needs no translation.' She recalled an inspiring moment in Kenya's Amboseli Valley, where she played for a Maasai village unfamiliar with the violin. Despite the language barrier, the shared experience of music united them in laughter, dance and song. 'We could not speak in the same language, but we understood each other through the music we shared,' she reflected. 'Musical arts should create bridges and break down barriers. As musicians, we have a powerful voice. We can—and should—be leaders of peace and positive influence.'
Above Zhang Zhang visiting a Maasai village in Kenya (Photo: courtesy of Zhang Zhang and Marco Strullu)
While continuing her work with Zhangomusiq, Zhang recently left the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic after nearly 25 years and is relocating to Asia. Her next venture is a documentary series for TVMonaco exploring the cultural influence of the Silk Roads. Whether through violin or camera, Zhang remains driven to connect worlds. 'Keep listening, keep learning, always remain curious,' she advises the next generation. 'Being the best is not the goal. Creating beauty and serving a meaningful purpose is much more rewarding.'
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