Saturdays @ Laney College

In our Saturday Program at Laney College, students (ages 6+) spend 1.5 hours taking music lessons on the Chinese musical instrument of their choice, and then 1.5 hours practicing in the youth orchestra. Students from our Saturday program are part of our Great Wall Youth Orchestra, and publicly perform throughout the year.

Frequently asked questions

  • The program is open to students, ages 6 and up, of all skill levels and backgrounds.

  • Classes include instruction on classical Chinese instruments, music theory, and ensemble playing. Students spend 1.5 hours in small group learning their individual instrument, and 1.5 hours rehearsing as a full orchestra.

  • PSMEF has instruments that can be purchased by families for use, or students can provide their own and no prior musical experience is required. Our program is designed for beginners and experienced musicians alike.

    We offer instruction in the folowing instruments: Erhu, Dizi, Guzheng, Sheng, Xiaoruan, Yangqin, Cello, Percussion.

  • Classes are held on the Laney College Campus at 900 Fallon Street in Oakland.

  • Classes meet every Saturday, for beginning students from 9am-11:30am, and for intermediate and advanced students, from 1pm-4pm.

  • The registration fee is $300 for new students who are Oakland residents, which includes the cost of earning college credit and music instruction from our artists. Additionally, students will need to cover the expense of purchasing an instrument for use. It's important to note that the registration fee is substantially more affordable than the costs associated with comparable youth orchestras in the Bay Area, which can amount to upwards of $1000 per semester. Financial assistance is available for families who qualify. Please see our registration page for details.

  • The program not only develops musical skills but also enhances teamwork, discipline, and cultural awareness. Students gain confidence through public performances and become well-rounded individuals. In the last 30 years, 99% of students who have gone through our Saturday program at Laney College have gone on to two and four-year colleges.

  • Parents can support the program by encouraging their children's participation and at-home practice, attending performances, and volunteering at events. Financial contributions are also welcomed.