Friday Ensemble Class

🎶 Explore Music and Chinese Culture in Our Fun Friday Ensemble Class! 🎶

Every Friday afternoon, kids will have a blast in our Ensemble Class, where we not only make music but also dive into the beauty of Chinese music and culture! This special class helps children develop teamwork, musical skills, and creativity—while learning about traditional Chinese pieces that have been loved for generations. Come join us for a fun, cultural, and musical experience while celebrating music, friendship, and the magic of Chinese melodies!

The class runs from 1:00 to 2:30 pm and is divided into two parts:

  • Sectional Practice: In the first half of the session, students will split into small groups based on choice of instrument to focus and improve on individual parts of the performance piece.
  • Full Ensemble Rehearsal: In the second half, students will join as one group and play the music learned together—it’s amazing when all the instruments come together!

*This class is designed for children who have previous knowledge of their selected instrument or are currently taking instrument lessons simultaneously.

At the end of the summer, students will perform the beautiful traditional piece “Colorful Clouds Chase the Moon” (彩云追月)”—a beloved traditional piece that showcases the grace and charm of Chinese culture. It’s a fantastic way for kids to connect with this rich cultural heritage, and parents and friends are invited to enjoy the performance and cheer them on!

Erhu Introduction

Dive into the enchanting world of the erhu, one of China’s most beloved traditional instruments, in this 6-week beginner group course! Students will explore the fundamentals of bowing techniques, finger placement, and rhythm, all while learning the rich cultural heritage of erhu. Affordable short-term erhu rentals are also available—so you do not have to purchase the instrument!

Throughout the course, students will work on refining their skills, and develop the ability to play the elegant and rhythmic piece “凤阳花鼓” (Fengyang Flower Drum), which has a iconic melody and specially adapted for beginners to ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By the end of the program, students will have a basic foundation in erhu techniques, improved musicality, and the pleasure of sharing music with others. Join us and unlock the joy of playing this beautiful instrument!

Pipa Introduction

Embark on a musical adventure with our pipa summer course, thoughtfully designed to welcome those with no prior musical experience and offered as a group class to make your learning experience even more enriching and enjoyable! Explore the captivating world of the pipa, a traditional Chinese instrument with a rich history spanning over two thousand years, and delve into China’s cultural heritage through music. We’ll guide you through the basics —from reading sheet music to mastering essential techniques like “Tan and Tiao” (plucking), “Shuang Tan” (double pluck), and “Lun” (tremolo). By the end of the course, beginners will be able to play the most representative Chinese Folk Song “茉莉花” (Jasmine Flower), fully immersing themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Chinese culture and music.

To ensure a seamless learning experience, we provide Pipa Essential Kits for purchase, complete with professional artificial nails. Pipa rentals are also available at an additional small cost. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the captivating world of the pipa and gain a profound appreciation for the nuances of Chinese musical traditions. Join us, and let the melodies unfold!

Guzheng Introduction

Come join us and explore the ancient Chinese traditional musical instrument, the guzheng! With a rich history spanning over 2000 years, the guzheng is often referred to as the Chinese zither. The name “guzheng” comes from two characters: 古 (gǔ), meaning ancient, and 筝 (zhēng), meaning zither. Known for its light, ethereal timbre and broad tonal range, the guzheng has the unique ability to transport listeners back in time to ancient China.

This 6-week course will introduce your child to the beauty and history of guzheng. They will learn essential techniques such as Tuo, Mo, Gou, glissandos, vibratos, pressings, and more. Throughout the course, students will also become familiar with Chinese musical notations, scales, and the rich cultural heritage behind this instrument. By the end of the program, beginners will be able to play the iconic piece “沧海一声笑” (A Laugh from the Vast Sea), a beautiful piece that embodies the spirit of Chinese music.

Join us and let your child experience the magic of this timeless instrument!

Hulusi Introduction

Join us on a thrilling musical adventure with our beginner-friendly Hulusi course! Your child will be captivated by the beauty of this ancient Chinese instrument as we introduce them to essential techniques, Chinese notations, and scales. They’ll discover the cultural background of music while learning the admirable melodies.

In this course, students will learn basic skills like single and double tonguing, tremolo, and portamento. In the end of the course, they’ll be able to showcase their talents with traditional favorites such as “月光下的凤尾竹” (The Fernleaf Bamboo in the Moonlight).

A Hulusi is available for purchase through Echos of China for a very small cost! Let’s set off on a journey of musical creativity!