National Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Legacy of Taipei Times Founder

A concert honoring the late Rong San Lin, founder of the Taipei Times and its sister publication, the Liberty Times, took place at the National Concert Hall in Taipei on October 7, 2023. The event marked the tenth anniversary of Lin’s passing, celebrating his significant contributions to Taiwanese media and society.

Under the baton of conductor Lin Chin-chao, the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) performed “Sounds of Freedom.” The program featured A Path Forward, a composition by Chen Ke-chia, which reflects Lin’s enduring pursuit of progress and freedom. Renowned Russian pianist Denis Kozhukhin also graced the stage, delivering a powerful rendition of Johannes Brahms‘ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 83.

The concert’s repertoire traversed a musical landscape, showcasing a blend of classical elegance, romantic depth, and contemporary vibrancy. In a statement prior to the concert, Chen expressed that “A Path Forward” aims to capture the spirit of Lin, stating that while no single work can encapsulate his legacy, it serves as “a tribute to Taiwan’s enduring spirit and a gesture of respect for the land.”

The executive director of the Lin Rong San Foundation of Culture and Social Welfare, Tsai Su-fen, shared insights into Lin’s multifaceted career. He successfully transitioned from politics to the corporate world, enabling him to retire without financial concerns. Yet, Tsai noted that Lin believed Taiwan should embrace diverse perspectives, emphasizing the motto “Taiwan Foremost, Liberty First,” which has guided the Liberty Times since its inception in 1993.

Lin’s commitment to advancing media in Taiwan led him to explore printing technologies across Europe and the United States. His goal was to enhance the reading experience for his audience. Tsai recounted that Lin spent long hours at the office, often leaving only after reviewing the proofs for the next day’s edition. His meticulous approach resulted in the Liberty Times becoming the first Taiwanese newspaper to implement full-color printing. At its peak, the publication enjoyed a daily circulation of 1 million copies.

Moreover, Lin was dedicated to fostering civic engagement among Taiwanese readers. He personally curated opinion pieces and editorials concerning Taiwan’s future, compiling them into anthologies that he distributed to the public. Tsai emphasized that Lin’s intention was to encourage a deeper investment in local communities, thereby contributing to the foundation of a sovereign identity uniquely Taiwanese.

The concert served not only as a remembrance of a media pioneer but also as a celebration of the values he championed throughout his life. Lin’s legacy continues to resonate in Taiwan’s media landscape, inspiring new generations to pursue freedom of expression and community engagement.