Smart pianos, vocal synthesis and professional audio headline the latest innovations at Music China 2026

Music China is preparing to showcase the dynamism of international trade and innovation, bringing together more than 1,500 exhibitors from 25 countries and regions. The combination of innovation and expertise from around the world will reinforce the fair's role as a platform for product sourcing, professional exchange and business networking.

Against the backdrop of China's strong manufacturing and export capabilities, the 23rd edition will present an extensive range of traditional musical instruments, advanced electric and electronic music equipment, audio equipment, accessories and other products.

Alongside the exhibition, business matching sessions will facilitate connections between companies and the negotiation of agreements, while an extensive programme of fringe events, with music technology as one of its main themes, will highlight emerging trends and help make music more accessible to a wider audience.

Despite persistent global economic uncertainty, Music China returns at a time when China's musical instrument industry is showing signs of recovery, with electric and electronic music equipment emerging as one of its main drivers.

Some segments have recorded significant growth: electric guitar sales have increased by 110%, while electronic synthesiser sales have reached nearly 2.2 million units. In 2025, China's exports of electric musical instruments amounted to USD 739 million, highlighting the country's strength in instrument manufacturing.

In line with this trend, the 2026 edition will present a diverse range of products, from electro-acoustic instruments to smart instruments powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

Among the main highlights will be the AV-D501 electric violin from Aileen Music, equipped with a versatile pickup system that enables a wide range of tonal expression. Also on display will be the Phantom Master Series T33 intelligent digital piano from Guangzhou Pearl River Amason Digital Musical Instruments, featuring a light-guided keyboard and an intelligent chord recognition system with 98.7% accuracy. Meanwhile, the HLA-98 electronic wind instrument from Hailun Piano (Ningbo) incorporates a Dream SAM5708B audio digital signal processor with an eight-core architecture and a built-in acoustic chamber. Another highlight will be the Dovif Automatic Piano Performance System from Tianyue Artech, powered by the OpenPiano.AI large language model and ADSR technology, designed to deliver professional-level performances.

Together, these innovations reflect the growing competitiveness of Chinese brands in the international market.

In the Tomorrow's Music area, located in Hall N2, and in the New Product Launch showcase area, visitors will be able to explore developments demonstrating how manufacturers are improving the design, playability and functionality of musical instruments and audio equipment, particularly among Chinese brands.

Alongside domestic innovations, various international brands will present their latest advances. Yamaha's new YDS-152 digital saxophone, for example, delivers authentic acoustic resonance thanks to its IBAS system and brass bell. It also features 16 acoustic instrument sounds, including violin and flute, improved key switches and a tone guide on the battery compartment cover for easier operation. In the software segment, artificial intelligence will take centre stage with Dreamtonics' Synthesizer V Studio 2 Pro, a professional vocal synthesis solution designed for music producers that delivers human-like naturalness and exceptionally fast processing speeds. Among the audio highlights, Beyerdynamic's DT 30 IE provides professional in-ear monitoring for demanding live sound environments. It features high-performance drivers for balanced sound, up to 39 dB of passive isolation and an ergonomic design developed from hundreds of ear impressions.

Spread across 12 halls, the fair will feature extensive international representation, with a particularly strong presence from China, Germany, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan and Korea, among other countries.

The product range will encompass traditional Chinese instruments, electric and electronic instruments, percussion, string instruments, audio and music production equipment, software, sheet music and music-related merchandise. It will include products for both beginners and professionals, ranging from classical instruments to contemporary solutions.

Business matching with Europe and South America as priority markets

Thanks to their manufacturing capabilities and product innovation, Chinese musical instruments are gaining ground in international markets, with Europe and South America emerging as two high-potential export destinations. In 2025, China's exports of musical instruments to the European Union reached USD 551 million, driven by sustained demand for mid-range and high-end instruments and customised educational equipment. South America also presents significant opportunities. Imports of Chinese musical instruments into the region increased by 13.8% year-on-year, while buyers in Brazil, Argentina and Chile are showing growing interest in affordable string and percussion instruments.

These market trends will be reflected in Music China's business programme. In collaboration with international associations and global platforms, the fair has invited qualified buyers from Europe, South America and other regions to participate in dedicated business matching sessions. These activities will connect Chinese suppliers with selected international buyers, creating opportunities to negotiate commercial agreements and establish long-term business relationships.

Fringe events to promote innovation and creative talent

Beyond product presentations and business matching, the 2026 edition will feature an extensive programme of fringe events that will place music technology and innovation at the centre of attention. As advanced technologies transform music production and performance, the fair will provide a dedicated platform to connect startups and creators with industry investors.

For the first time, Music China will collaborate with Plug and Play China, a global innovation platform originating in Silicon Valley, to organise the Global Tech Network. This event will connect music technology startups with potential investors and industry partners through keynote presentations and pitch sessions, followed by networking activities to encourage professional exchange. Topics will include AI-powered music tools, smart audio hardware, immersive spaces, automotive acoustics and equipment for live music streaming, among others. Industry experts will also advise startups on business models, technology upgrades and expansion into new markets.

This collaboration reinforces the fair's role as a bridge between creative innovation and business investment, as well as its contribution to generating commercial opportunities across the music industry.