Chen Gang

Chen Gang, 91, died on July 18, 2026. Chen Gang was known publicly as a Chinese composer (''Butterfly Lovers' Violin Concerto''). Chen Gang started to learn piano and composition from his father and music teachers from a young age. From 1955 to 1959, Chen Gang was a student at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, studying composition. In 1959, Chen Gang, together with another student, He Zhanhao, composed the violin concerto Butterfly Lovers. The violin concerto won five Golden Record prizes as well as a Platinum Record prize. The Concerto has also achieved enormous international success. Public biographical listings identify Gang as a Chinese composer (''Butterfly Lovers' Violin Concerto''). This public record remains centered on Gang's work as a Chinese composer (''Butterfly Lovers' Violin Concerto'') and the documented milestones of that career.