On 21 May 2017, in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China, Du Tianlu led an extraordinary collective performance that made history. An ensemble of 2,398 participants gathered together and, with remarkable precision and synchronicity, performed the exact rhythm of the song “Pursuing” — composed and written by Du Tianlu herself — using nothing but cups as percussion instruments. The performance lasted 6 minutes and 5 seconds, with every one of the 2,398 participants maintaining perfect timing throughout, setting a new world record for the largest cup percussion ensemble ever assembled.

Cup percussion — popularised in recent years through viral social media performances and film — requires each performer to create rhythm by tapping, sliding, and striking cups against their hands and surfaces in a precise, choreographed sequence. Scaling this art form to 2,398 participants simultaneously, while maintaining the integrity of the musical performance across the entire ensemble, was a feat of extraordinary organisation, musicality, and teamwork. The achievement came on the ensemble’s second attempt — a testament to the group’s determination to succeed after falling short on their first try.

World Records Authority proudly recognises Du Tianlu and all 2,398 participants for this extraordinary achievement. This record is a shining testament to the power of music, collective talent, and the human capacity for precise coordination — a performance that brought together thousands of individuals in perfect harmony and set an international standard for synchronised musical performance.