Shock Concert Band celebrates 40 years with North America tour

Shock Concert Band celebrates 40 years with North America tour

2025-06-30

The Shock Concert Band is celebrating its 40th anniversary bringing Taiwanese music to North American melophiles. The band was founded in 1986 by former students from the wind band at the Taipei Zhong Zheng Senior High School. Now, they are headed for Canada and the US. The opening concert in Toronto is scheduled for July 3, with another one to follow at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York. Let’s hear more.

Super Meng
Shock Concert Band president
Since 2005, we at the Shock Concert Band have been bringing the sounds of Taiwan to global audiences, and this is our 15th global tour series. We’ve performed in 14 countries so far. Thanks to the support from the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce and from overseas Taiwanese, we’re now playing in the US and Canada. The response has been great.

Jeffrey Liang
Shock Concert Band artistic director and conductor
We’ve been preparing for this US and Canada tour for an entire year. We’re performing at the premier concert hall in the US, the Carnegie Hall. The program includes pieces that combine Taiwanese, American and Canadian folk songs.

The program has folk music at its core, and will also be played back home in Taipei in August. The Shock Concert Band is determined to let music lovers around the world to appreciate the beauty of Taiwan’s sounds.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#music #melophile #windband #shockconcertband #concert #toronto #newyork #NYC

讓世界聽見台灣的聲音震撼管樂團40週年團慶赴美加巡演

2025-06-30

由台北市立"中正高中"管樂社校友，1986年成立的震撼管樂團，今年團慶將到美國和加拿大展開巡演，7/3第一場會在多倫多盛大展開，也將站上紐約卡內基音樂廳，舉行「讓世界聽見台灣的聲音」巡迴公演，為樂團成立40周年，留下獨特又響亮的里程碑。

[[震撼管樂團團長孟義超]]
“那這個是從2005年，震撼管樂團推出讓世界聽見台灣的聲音，全球巡演第15個系列，那我們已經去過14個國家，那麼透過台商會跟我們台僑的支持，這一次演出在美加地區，已經造成大家的支持跟響應”

[[震撼管樂團音樂總監及指揮梁兆豐]]
“這次的美加行，其實籌備了整整一整年，將前往美國首屈一指，卡內基音樂廳演出外，我們也特別準備一系列，結合台灣以及美國加拿大民謠的一些曲目”

巡演將以台灣民謠為主軸，返台後在8月底也會在台北舉行盛大音樂會，震撼管樂團將繼續用音符，讓世界聽見台灣。

更多新聞內容，請鎖定：
民視台灣台（152頻道）週一至週五晚上9:30
民視新聞台（53頻道）週二至週六凌晨1:00

Related News

Taiwan ‘ready’ ahead of tariff waiver expiry: Econ minister

Business anxiety is rising as the 90-day tariff exemption period granted by the administration of US President Donald Trump will soon end on July 9. Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei sought to reassure when he recently spoke on FTV’s program “News Observation.” Although Kuo didn’t know what the US had decided on, he stressed Taiwan’s government had already simulated many different hypothetical American tariff regimes so it would be able to respond immediately. He also stressed Taiwan’s prowess in manufacturing and noted its industries complemented American ones. Let’s hear from the minister.

Once a top executive and now a public servant: Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei tells FTV that during his one year in office he’s been hit with a lot of criticism.

Kuo Jyh-huei
Minister of Economic Affairs
Previously, I used to say whatever I was thinking. And, you see, I had been a teacher and a professor for 20 years. I had taught at universities for 20 years. In fact, I am used to sharing. Whenever I had new knowledge or new ideas, I would share them with my students or friends. But it seems that when it comes to government, I cannot do this. For many things involving government, you have to deal with them firmly, and only afterwards can you talk about them. That was a complete shock for me.

Kuo revealed that a communication channel will be established to promote internal changes in his ministry and strengthen communication when it comes to policies. While the personal problems he describes are minor, right now national affairs are onerous. The expiration of Trump’s 90-day tariff exemption period is imminent and Taiwan has to face this as it involves the welfare of nearly all industries.

Kuo Jyh-huei
Minister of Economic Affairs
We have found there is too much uncertainty in their negotiations. This is what we are more worried about.

The government has already simulated several different tariff regimes, which will help it give an immediate response. At the same time, as the ancient Sunzi adage goes, this will allow Taiwan to know the enemy and know oneself.

Kuo Jyh-huei
Minister of Economic Affairs
We want to understand what the US really wants. The US is currently solving problems with tariffs, which is solving trade problems. But behind this is another problem: resolving its problems of financial imbalance. Another issue is resolving problems relating to its manufacturing hollowing out. Trump has been talking continuously about solving problems relating to manufacturing hollowing out. He wants to make America great again. The US and Taiwan complement each other in technology industries and manufacturing industries. Taiwanese people have unique capabilities in this area. Why? In the past 50 years, we have continuously evolved from original equipment manufacturing to original design manufacturing. We have mastered an extraordinary amount of specialized knowledge in the manufacturing industry.

Given the strength of Taiwan’s manufacturing industry, Kuo is confident that Taiwan can turn American hostilities into friendship and achieve coexistence.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#taiwan #trump #economy #minister #manufacturing

2025-06-30

Ministry of Agriculture introduces insurance coverage for service dogs

Whether they’re checking goods at customs, upholding public order, or assisting in a disaster, service dogs can be found all over. They must complete lengthy trainings before they can be dispatched the front lines of dangerous jobs like sniffing for diseases or drugs or search and rescue, serving as important protectors of public safety. To improve their healthcare and manage risks, the Ministry of Agriculture has launched an ESG insurance project. A first for service dogs across all of Taiwan, the project aims to ensure that service dogs get comprehensive medical care during their years of service.

Patrolling through the airport and checking luggage carts near the carousels is routine for a service dog. Jeff here is a handsome nine-year-old beagle, and full of energy. He usually works in Songshan Airport as an experienced customs detection dog. But he’s more than just adorable. He’s honed an important skill crucial for controlling food and drink imports.

Wang Chen-li
Dog handler
We teach them to sniff for agricultural products like apples, oranges, or bananas inside cardboard boxes, luggage, and bags. When they detect something, they sit down.

Ku Pao-lin
Dog handler
We look for dogs that are more reserved and rational. Like for detection dogs for agricultural goods and drugs, we’ll choose ones that are more energetic. He has a lot of motivation and confidence to search. When he finds a target item, he gets so happy.

Then there’s this rescue dog, Rambo. He bravely traversed fallen buildings in the wake of the April 3 earthquake in Hualien, carefully avoiding the many exposed beams and other dangers awaiting a service dog such as himself. Or in the high mountains, service dogs might come across an animal trap or venomous snake. Every site has hidden dangers. To manage healthcare and risks for service dogs, the Ministry of Agriculture for the first time has launched an ESG project to provide comprehensive insurance to service dogs nationwide. Now, every canine can get medical protection during their years of service tailored to the particularities of each job.

Chen Chun-chi
Minister of Agriculture
These service dogs work hard to protect the lives and property of Taiwanese. In return, we must strive to protect these dogs and animal rights. That’s why we started offering this insurance policy. The main thing is that this first one is compulsory.

There are 292 dogs in active public service. After providing coverage for them, the ministry hopes to include those in private service as well to care for the well-being of all of Taiwan’s service dogs.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#servicedogs #snifferdog #searchandrescue #petinsurance #searchdog #MinistryofAgriculture #animalwelfare

2025-06-30

Miaoli firefighter wins 2 golds and 1 silver at games for law enforcement officers

2025-06-30

Firefighters hold gas explosion drills inside indoor theme park

2025-06-30

Exploring Taichung’s rich landscapes on bicycle and mountain paths

With mountains to its east and the sea to its west, Taichung offers countless stunning views. And it’s explorable just with a bike and two feet. There are 94 bike paths in Taichung covering a total of 780 kilometers, as well as 65 hiking paths through the mountains. The Taichung City Government hosts a variety of activities to give everyone the chance to experience their city’s splendor.

This picturesque scene with cyclists riding through forest paths shaded by tall trees was captured in Taichung. The city has a total of 94 bike paths covering over 780 kilometers, the most of Taiwan’s six major cities, according to a 2023 assessment.

Chen Mei-hsiu
Taichung Tourism Bureau director
There are nearly 100 bike paths in Taichung with a total length of 780 kilometers. To put that in perspective, that’s the length of a round-trip up and down Taiwan’s highways. You can ride a long way, weaving through the corners of different districts, experiencing the beauty of Taichung by bicycle.

People can choose a route they like and explore Taichung by cycling, enjoying beautiful views along the way. Hiking is also a popular outdoor activity in the city. The Taichung City Government is organizing several events this summer vacation for people to explore the outdoors.

Lu Shiow-yen
Taichung Mayor
Bicycle and hiking paths are a great way for our citizens to exercise. There are several new national holidays this year, so sometimes a two-day weekend turns into a three-day mini-vacation. We welcome people from around Taiwan to come to Taichung.

Chen Mei-hsiu
Taichung Tourism Bureau director
Here in Taichung, the mountain, coastal and urban areas all have their own characteristics. We are now connecting even more diverse tourism resources by using bicycle and hiking trails. By integrating more diverse attractions, we aim to create a unique travel experience in Taichung, showcasing this charming city’s sustainable tourism.

With mountains to its east and the sea to its west, Taichung offers many different experiences. The city has many bicycle and hiking paths to explore, and the local government is constantly improving outdoor spaces.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Taichung #mountains #sea #urban #bicycle #bicyclepath #cycling #hiking #outdoors #active

2025-06-30

Popular diving spot Clown Island reverts to earlier state after rest period

Popular among diving enthusiasts, Clown Island is an underwater coral formation located just off the west coast of Green Island. Four years ago, due to construction work at a nearby fishing harbor, heavy rains and typhoons, a large number of corals and anemones died in the region. Fortunately, under the protection of the East Coast National Scenic Area Administration, Clown Island has recuperated. Today, the marine environment has reverted to its previous state, along with the return of local fish species.

In this underwater world, fish swim leisurely in a breathtakingly beautiful scene. This is Clown Island near Green Island, a popular diving spot that got its name from the clownfish that populate these waters. However, at one time, coral bleaching devastated the ecosystem. Fortunately, after several years of rest, it is gradually recovering.

Huang Chien-feng
East Coast Nat’l Scenic Area Admin.
In 2020, due to restoration work at the fishing port, as well as typhoons and the heavy rainfall on numerous occasions, the anemones and clownfish that were here before completely disappeared.

Four years ago, due to restoration work that was going on at a nearby fishing port, as well as heavy rain and typhoons, Clown Island was blanketed with sand, leading to destruction of corals and anemones. The glory of Clown Island was tarnished. But surprisingly, the island restored itself and came back to life after a period of rest. Now it has returned to its original state.

Huang Chien-feng
East Coast Nat’l Scenic Area Admin.
The data we collected this year are truly amazing. The ecosystem of Clown Island has reverted to a state similar to that in 2020. The anemones and clownfish are slowly returning.

The marine environment is gradually returning to a healthy state. The East Coast National Scenic Area Administration wants to use Clown Island as a reminder to people that development and engineering projects should always note the condition of the local ecology, because there’s no guarantee that damage could always be undone.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#corals #marinelife #coralreef #tropicalfish #clownfish #anemones #wildlife #taiwan #greenisland

2025-06-30

Captian Chen Chieh-hsien leads team to victory again

On Sunday, star baseball player Chen Chieh-hsien led his team to first place for the CPBL’s 2025 H1 season. His team, the 7-Eleven Lions beat the Rakuten Monkeys 4-1, with 3 hits coming from Captain Chen himself. Earlier, Chen was invited to open for the Chicago White Sox Taiwan Day on June 28. However, he declined because he wanted to focus on the ongoing CPBL season. After Sunday’s victory, Chen said he’s happy he didn’t accept the invitation to go to the US, otherwise he would miss out on the chance to see his team coming out on top.

Orange confetti are released after the 7-Eleven Lions’ Takashio Masaki pitches the game-ending strikeout and beat the Rakuten Monkeys 4-1. This game was only to make up for the one suspended on April 20, but it ended up being the season-defining game for the Lions. If not for the postponement, team captain Chen Chieh-hsien might have accepted the invitation to throw first pitch for the Chicago White Sox Taiwan Day on June 28. Chen had declined, saying he wanted to see to the end of the season with the rest of the team. Good for Lions that he did.

Broadcaster
Chen Chieh-hsien’s fly ball on the left, it’s going quite far. It’s still not landing. And it’s a hit!

Chen was called up from the bench in this game, making three hits, including 2 doubles.
In this game, Chen Chieh-hsien came off the bench and hit 3 hits in 3 at-bats, including 2 doubles in a stunning performance. Had he gone to the US, he would have missed three games, in which he had made a total of six hits in 12 at-bats.

Chen Chieh-hsien
7-Eleven Lions
I already said it the last few games. It’s fated. Had I gone to the US to throw first pitch, I wouldn’t be able to witness this grand event. I want to thank everyone on the team, our coaches and fans. We’ve worked so hard for this. In the second half of the year we’ll keep winning, most important of all the final championship at the end of the year.

After the 7-Eleven Lions’ win, their namesake 7-Eleven convenience store announced a three-day promotion for commemorative merch and tie-in collabs with the team, to celebrate the victory.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#baseball #CPBL #陳傑憲 #統一獅 #樂天桃猿隊

2025-06-30

Influencer called ‘extreme bootlicker’ with hot take on Taiwan’s future

Do the 1.4 billion inhabitants of China have a say in Taiwan’s future? That’s what influencer Holger Chen seems to think. In a recent livestream, he said that the fate of Taiwan rested in their hands. In response, internet users have called him an “extreme bootlicker.” A DPP lawmaker says Chen has been bribed to promote China’s unification ideology in Taiwan.

Who decides the fate of the people of Taiwan? Holger Chen has a hot take.

Holger Chen
Influencer
Taiwan belongs to the Taiwanese. We are compatriots with 1.4 billion people on the mainland. The 23 million people of Taiwan decide the development of the country, but our fate is in the hands of all 1.4 billion of you.

Rosalia Wu
DPP legislative caucus
After a trip to China, Holger Chen has become a different person. Everything he says is parroting Chinese rhetoric. The CCP has bribed and recruited Holger Chen as their influencer in Taiwan to promote unification.

Puma Shen
DPP lawmaker
Saying that the fate of Taiwan lies in the hands of others is rather barbarous. The real civilization is here, where the people of this land decide their own future.

Lawmakers and internet users have slammed the influencer, who has been referred to as an “extreme bootlicker” who is “capitulating” to China. Chen’s buddy in the TPP sees things differently.

Huang Kuo-chang
TPP chair
His livestreams are always very long. Longtime fans aren’t cherry-picking a sentence or two and taking it all out of context. Holger is just another citizen. He talks a lot during his livestreams, really a lot. He’s just speaking his mind.

Lo Chih-chiang
KMT lawmaker
The future of the 23 million citizens of Taiwan is to be decided by all of us together. What we want is peace across the Taiwan Strait. That is, we oppose the use of force to tackle cross-strait issues.

Does the entire population of China have a say in Taiwan’s future? The take is a hard sell even for the China-friendly KMT.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#館長 #politics #crossstrait #taiwan #china

2025-06-30

China Airlines flight avoids crash with mountain by 20 seconds

2025-06-30