Our music
programs offer students an introduction to traditional Chinese instruments
and opera. Students learn Chinese music by playing Chinese plucking,
bowing, wind and percussion instruments and by singing traditional Chinese
songs. They are instructed in musicianship using the French Cheve method,
learning note reading, pitch, rhythm and timing, sight singing and music
theory.
Located on the campus of Laney
College, the Great Wall Youth Orchestra & Chorus consists of
advanced members of the Purple Bamboo Orchestra & Chorus, middle
and high school students from various Oakland schools and students from
the Greater Bay Area. Chorus classes are held Friday evenings while the
orchestra practices on Saturdays, with separate sections for beginner,
intermediate and advanced students.
Lincoln
Elementary, based in Oakland Chinatown, is one of the only K-5 public
schools in America that teaches music with Chinese instruments. The
children in this program get their start by learning how to sing Do Re
Mi. If they can sing on pitch, they may join the Purple Bamboo Chorus,
or learn to play a music instrument. Lincoln is part of the Oakland
Unified School District.