Although there is growing worldwide knowledge of the piano ditty called The Cowherd's Flute by Chinese musician and lyricist He Luting, few noticed the interesting story behind its creation.

In the summer of 1934, the young He Luting came across a contest seeking for the best short piano piece with Chinese Characteristics in Shanghai. It was initiated by the Russian composer and pianist Alexander Tcherepnin, and the winner would be sent for further study abroad free of charge.

The chance enchanted He Luting with limited means, who studied in Shanghai at that time. Despite the hot summertime, he decided to have a try. He got up early, worked hard at dawn to avoid scorching sun and eventually composed three ditties, including The Cowherd's Flute. Two of these ditties were prizewinners with The Cowherd's Flute acquiring the first prize.

Therefore, the contest was a breaking point in his life. Naturally, he got the excellent training abroad and became a Chinese maestro. And, The Cowherd's Flute became a must-to-play ditty for every concert Alexander Tcherepnin holds. Thus, the ditty became world-renowned.