The Chinese music program at Laney college was established in 1973 by Sherlyn Chew. Victor Siu, states that their mission is to preserve and promote Chinese music. It is a unique program that provides adult instruction and classes for children under 18 years of age. The youth group is called “Great Wall Youth Orchestra of Laney College” and performs regularly in the bay area. Notable performances include the yearly Chinese New Year parade and concerts for two United States Presidents. Included are instructional classes in traditional Chinese instruments such as erhu (two string violin), dizi (bamboo flute), yangqin (dulcimer), guzheng (zither), and many other plucked string instruments. All levels and all ages are welcome to join. Instructor Lu Peng directs the Chinese Small Ensemble, which compliments the work of the large orchestra.
Chinese Orchestra
The Laney Chinese Orchestra performed at the Chinese New Year’s Parade 2022.
Videos
Degrees
Here are the requirements for both certificate and AA degree.
The Chinese Music A.A. recognizes mastery of Chinese Music essentials. Students will examine basic music theory, solo performance techniques, Chinese Music History; Jianpu notation, instrumentation, Chinese Opera traditions, and ensemble playing techniques. After completing this program, students will be able to play concerts, compose music, participate in recording sessions, or continue with their studies by transferring to a four-year Music program, especially in Ethnomusicology.
Career Opportunities
Performer, instructor, coach, conductor, recording artist, lecturer.
Course Sequence
Survey of Chinese Music (3 units) | ||
---|---|---|
MUSIC 53B | Music of China | 3 |
Performance (8 units from the following) | ||
Courses in this category may be repeated 3 times. | ||
MUSIC 32 | Chinese Orchestra | 1 |
MUSIC 54 | Chinese Small Ensemble | 1 |
Theory, Skills, and Piano (5 units) | ||
MUSIC 101 | Music Theory and Culture I | 3 |
MUSIC 121 | Music Skills I | 1 |
MUSIC 130 | Elementary Piano Method I | 1 |
TOTAL MAJOR UNITS: | 16 | |
General Education Requirements: | 19 | |
Elective courses to meet 60 | ||
Total Units | 60 |
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Employ proper instrumental or vocal technique to construct properly prepared musical phrasing.
- Apply basic music theory and skills.
- Synthesize music skills ability, music theory knowledge, and instrumental or vocal technique into informed performances.
The Certificate of Achievement in Chinese Music recognizes mastery of Chinese music essentials. Students will examine basic music theory, solo performance techniques, Chinese Music History; Jianpu notation, instrumentation, Chinese Opera traditions, and ensemble playing techniques. After completing this program, students will be able to play concerts, compose music, participate in recording sessions, or continue with their studies towards an associate degree.
Career Opportunities
Performer, instructor, coach, conductor, recording artist, lecturer.
Course Sequence
Survey of Chinese Music (3 units) | ||
---|---|---|
MUSIC 53B | Music of China | 3 |
Performance (8 units from the following) | ||
Courses in this category may be repeated 3 times. | ||
MUSIC 32 | Chinese Orchestra | 1 |
MUSIC 54 | Chinese Small Ensemble | 1 |
Theory, Skills, and Piano (5 units) | ||
MUSIC 101 | Music Theory and Culture I | 3 |
MUSIC 121 | Music Skills I | 1 |
MUSIC 130 | Elementary Piano Method I | 1 |
TOTAL MAJOR UNITS: | 16 |
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
- Employ proper instrumental or vocal technique to construct properly prepared musical phrasing.
- Apply basic music theory and skills.
- Synthesize music skills ability, music theory knowledge, and instrumental or vocal technique into informed performances.
Lu Peng
Faculty (Chinese Music)
Sherlyn Chew
Advisor