22/06/2026
【Beyond Borders and Barriers: NTUE Welcomes Maestro Diego Carneiro for Dialogue on Music, Education, and Peacebuilding】
As one of the distinguished international guests invited to Taiwan for the 2026 Rotary International Convention, renowned Brazilian cellist Maestro Diego Carneiro visited the National Taipei University of Education (NTUE) on June 18, 2026. While in Taiwan to participate in the international gathering, Maestro Carneiro took the opportunity to visit NTUE, engaging in meaningful exchanges on music, education, culture, and international understanding.
Widely recognized for his dedication to using music as a force for unity, cultural exchange, and social impact, Maestro Carneiro has devoted his career to building connections across communities and nations through the arts. His visit to NTUE provided an opportunity for dialogue on the role of music and education in fostering mutual understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
During his visit, Maestro Carneiro met with NTUE President Professor Ching-Ho Chen and Dean of International Affairs Professor I-Chun Hsieh, followed by a luncheon discussion and a guided tour of the university museum. During the meeting, President Chen and Maestro Carneiro exchanged views on the role of music and arts education in fostering global citizenship and intercultural understanding. They also discussed potential opportunities for future academic and cultural collaboration, including international exchanges and cooperative initiatives that could further strengthen connections between Taiwan and the global community.
As a gesture of friendship and appreciation, President Chen presented Maestro Carneiro with commemorative gifts on behalf of NTUE, symbolizing the university's commitment to international engagement and cultural exchange. The meeting reflected a shared commitment to the values of global citizenship, intercultural learning, and international cooperation.
One of the most engaging topics discussed during the luncheon was the unique ability of music to connect people across cultural and social boundaries. Maestro Carneiro observed that while religions have played important roles in shaping civilizations and moral values, differences in beliefs have at times contributed to divisions among people. Music, by contrast, transcends language, nationality, and ideology, speaking directly to the human spirit and creating opportunities for genuine human connection.
Drawing upon his extensive international experiences, Maestro Carneiro emphasized that music can serve as a powerful instrument for peacebuilding. He noted that musicians from different backgrounds must learn to listen to one another, collaborate harmoniously, and respect diversity—qualities that are equally essential in promoting peaceful coexistence among nations. In a world often challenged by conflict and misunderstanding, music offers a universal platform for dialogue, empathy, and reconciliation.
The discussion also explored the fundamental elements that shape musical expression. Maestro Carneiro explained that music is built upon essential components such as sound, intonation, rhythm, dynamics, and harmony, each of which contributes to the creation of a meaningful artistic experience. Sound serves as the foundation of musical communication; intonation reflects attentiveness, precision, and the ability to listen carefully to others; rhythm provides structure and connection; dynamics bring expression, contrast, and emotional depth; and harmony demonstrates how different voices can coexist and support one another to create a unified whole.
Drawing a parallel between music and society, Maestro Carneiro suggested that these musical elements offer valuable lessons for human interaction. Just as musicians must listen attentively, adapt to one another, and work collectively to achieve balance and harmony, people from different cultures and backgrounds can learn to respect diversity while pursuing shared goals. In this sense, music not only reflects human experience but also serves as a model for dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.
In addition to discussing music and international peace, Maestro Carneiro expressed a strong interest in Taiwan’s cultural heritage. He was particularly curious about Taiwan’s cultures, artistic traditions, historical development, and contemporary cultural identity. He shared his belief that meaningful cultural exchange begins with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn from one another, and that understanding different societies enriches both artists and communities alike.
Following the luncheon, university representatives accompanied Maestro Carneiro on a tour of the NTUE Museum, where he gained further insights into Taiwan’s educational history and artistic development. The visit provided additional opportunities for cultural dialogue and mutual learning.
As his work continues to bring him across continents and cultures, Maestro Diego Carneiro remains a compelling advocate for the power of music to transcend borders, bridge differences, and foster understanding among people. His visit to NTUE served as a meaningful reminder that cultural exchange, education, and the arts remain vital pathways toward a more connected and peaceful world.
