Music China 2026 to spotlight technology, wellness and cultural tourism
Music China will return to the Shanghai New International Expo Centre from 28–31 October 2026, with its 23rd edition placing renewed emphasis on music technology, wellness and wider applications of music across the creative economy.
The trade fair, described by organisers as Asia’s largest musical instruments event, will again include the Tomorrow’s Music showcase, following its launch in 2025. The dedicated hall will focus on innovation across music technology, AI-assisted instrument design, smart learning tools and professional audio.
The 2026 event is expected to bring together manufacturers, publishers, qualification providers, dealers, educators and music professionals from China and overseas. Exhibitors named for the next edition include Arcus / Bernd Muesing KG, Thomastik-Infeld, Yanagisawa, Alhambra, Henry Lemoine, ABRSM, RSL Awards and Trinity College London.
Organisers say the fair will span 12 halls, with strong representation in bowed string instruments and electronic instruments, alongside growth areas such as smart instruments, sound reinforcement, DJ technology and music production software.
A major feature will be the return of the Music X zone, including Music X Lab, MIDI Zone and X Stage. These areas are designed to explore how technology is changing the way music is composed, produced, performed and learned, as well as its links with broadcasting, film, gaming and other creative industries.
The 2026 edition will also develop its focus on music’s role in wellness and cultural tourism. Healing instruments including singing bowls and handpans will be featured, with related forums and workshops expected to explore the growing use of sound and music in wellbeing settings, hotels, resorts and immersive tourism projects.
Judy Cheung, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said the event aims to support the wider music industry while identifying 'new opportunities' and 'emerging application scenarios' for music.