The 2026 WAPA International Youth Arts Festival launched on Tuesday in Beijing, bringing together eight top laureates from world-leading classical music competitions across four continents for a seven-day celebration of young artistic talent and cross-cultural exchange. The eight featured young laureates made their collective debut at the ceremony, treating the audience to preview performance highlights that showcased their artistry.

Co-hosted by the World Association for Performing Arts (WAPA) and the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), the event is approved by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, with professional support from the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC). The festival stands as one of the most high-profile global platforms dedicated to nurturing a new generation of classical musicians. Four core concerts, a full schedule of free public performances, school outreach sessions and open artist talks will run in parallel schedules.