"Usually, I perform or give lectures in front of a real audience, members of which may be shy to ask me questions and share their ideas about my music. But with the online shows, I receive many questions, which is very inspiring," Wu says.

Also joining in Ma in offering musical solace via the project is Wu Tong, a member of the Silk Road Ensemble since 2000, who plays the sheng, a traditional wind instrument.

Wu Tong has shared his music through online shows since the outbreak. He has arranged Bach's Air on the G String, a part of the composer's Orchestral Suite No 3, for his musical instrument, which was shared online as part of the "songs of comfort" project on April 6.

"There is no stage, no lights and no applause from audience. But when I play music at home, I still feel the energy music brings to me, which is important," says Wu Tong, 48, who comes from a prominent family of sheng makers.

During his days of staying at home, Wu Tong has spent hours adapting musical pieces and practicing meditation. He canceled his plans to record in Japan and shoot a documentary in the US, as well as some other planned performances.

"Since we all have to slow down due to the coronavirus pandemic, it's a time to reflect upon our lives, to call for compassion and change," he says.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn