A musically gifted but physically fragile boy whose journey includes overcoming timidity and discovering his own identity separate from his mother's ambitions.

Song’s gentle husband whose peaceful resolve and optimism provide a moral anchor and the dream of familial unity for Song and River.

River’s first piano teacher in Harbin, whose ambition and volatile temperament shape River’s early musical experiences.

A former concert pianist who becomes River’s guardian and mentor in Beijing, offering him stability and a nurturing approach to music.

A lively and boisterous food delivery worker in Beijing who becomes Song’s friend and later her partner, providing emotional support.

River’s first true friend and eventual girlfriend, who shares his musical world and helps pull him out of isolation.

Represents traditional rural life with a pragmatic focus on survival, initially conflicting with Song’s decisions for River.