Laney College’s Pop Music Ensemble recently returned from a transformative tour of China, where they were invited by the Chinese government to perform as part of an international cultural exchange. Led by ensemble director and Laney alumnus Victor Siu, students traveled across cities, playing in packed concert halls, joining impromptu jam sessions, and forging bonds that transcended language and borders.
For every student, it was their first time in China. The journey was not only an artistic milestone—it was a deeply personal experience that broadened perspectives and sparked new inspiration.
Many returned with renewed focus on their music education, with several expressing plans to take Chinese language classes at Laney in the fall.
Victor Siu, who studied at Laney before transferring to SF State and earning a master’s in Afro Latin music at Cal State LA, now leads the ensemble course—a dynamic program focused on R&B, rock, and pop. With his guidance, the ensemble has become a launching pad for collaboration, performance, and international exchange.
To showcase the profound impact of the trip, here’s a collection of reflections from the students themselves:
"Going to China this semester was one of the most amazing experiences of my life! The kindness and generosity shown to each and everyone of us throughout the trip truly warmed my heart. It felt like home as soon as we landed. Also, to be able to perform and regularly interact with such like minded people was unforgettable. The students at Shijiazhuang University are so incredibly talented. I will hold these memories close to my heart for the rest of my life."
– Mya Shepard
"It was such a great experience to have the opportunity to visit and perform in Shijiazhuang University as part of cultural exchange. To say it was an unforgettable experience would be an understatement. There are so many memories made with my pop ensemble friends and classmates. The food, hospitality, and kindness of everyone we met. It was such an honor to perform and share the magic of music with the students who joined us afterwards on stage with an unforgettable jam session. It was like nothing I’ve experienced before and I will always hold dear to my heart."
– Sarah Morsy
"The trip to Shijiazhuang University was amazing, as it facilitated cultural interaction and friendship between the two nations. It was an honor to meet the students there, and we got to have a jam session with them at the end. This trip highlights how music is truly a universal language, and uplifts the spirits of all."
– Patrick Gallagher
"The journey wasn’t just a trip to China but an educational, spiritual and uplifting experience. I learned that music has no limits. No language barrier can cage the power of music. I believe we can all learn something from music’s versatility and come together using music."
– Tyler Wanon
"I have found that almost all cities, in terms of the buildings and scenery start to have the same feeling after you have visited many, what made the difference in China is the people. They were and are among the kindest people I’ve met. On top of that, the students and staff at Shijiazhuang university are as generous as they are professional. I love that they gave us true history lessons and insight into their culture. This was a truly life-changing event for me."
– Dana Smith
"The Laney College pop ensemble’s visit to China was extraordinarily beneficial and life changing. I consider it to be an important event in my life. Our hosts were beyond welcoming, generous, and thoughtful toward our group. The cultural exchanges that took place were invaluable and built a bridge of solidarity."
– Matt Gallagher
"Our trip to China was an extraordinary experience that I will remember forever. I will always be grateful to Laney College and Victor Siu for giving me the chance to grow as a musician and learn so much about both another culture and myself."
– Savanah Bundy
Interested in making music at Laney?
Explore our dynamic Music Department—offering classes in performance, theory, recording, and more. Learn more --->>> laney.edu/music
