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Chinese Music Class

Chinese Music

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 53BMusic of China3
Performance (8 units from the following)
Courses in this category may be repeated 3 times.
MUSIC 32Chinese Orchestra1
MUSIC 54Chinese Small Ensemble1
Theory, Skills, and Piano (5 units)
MUSIC 101Music Theory and Culture I3
MUSIC 121Music Skills I1
MUSIC 130Elementary Piano Method I1
TOTAL MAJOR UNITS:16
General Education Requirements:19
Elective courses to meet 60
Total Units60

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 53BMusic of China3
Performance (8 units from the following)
Courses in this category may be repeated 3 times.
MUSIC 32Chinese Orchestra1
MUSIC 54Chinese Small Ensemble1
Theory, Skills, and Piano (5 units)
MUSIC 101Music Theory and Culture I3
MUSIC 121Music Skills I1
MUSIC 130Elementary Piano Method I1
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.

Faculty

Victor Siu

Victor Siu
Faculty (Chinese Music)

vsiu@peralta.edu

Lu Peng

Lu Peng
Faculty (Chinese Music)

lpeng@peralta.edu