GUZHENG ENSEMBLE

The Guzheng ensemble aims to inculcate in students the school values and promote greater musical and cultural appreciation through a variety of meaningful activities and experiences. Embark on a musical adventure with us and discover the Mozart in you!

1. Exposure to Chinese Orchestral Instruments & Music Theory

Students learn basic playing and musical skills:

• Rhythm-counting and pitching

• Decoding Cipher Notations

• Fingering Techniques

• Maintaining the Guzheng

• Ensemble playing

In addition to the learning of theoretical aspects of music and honing of skills in guzheng playing, students will be exposed to a repertoire of Guzheng compositions and concertos under the tutelage of our experienced instructor, Mdm Yin Qun.

2. School Concerts & National Competitions Performances

Students gain enriching experiences and build self-esteem and self-confidence through various performances such as the Chinese New Year concert and National Day concert. When playing as an ensemble, students foster teamwork and learn the importance of camaraderie and team spirit. Students also develop resilience and humility as they pull through long hours of practices in preparation for the events.

3. Musical & Cultural Appreciation Workshops and Outings

Students also have opportunities to attend workshops and concerts which encourage them to develop poise and forge stronger and positive friendships with their peers.

About the Guzheng

The Guzheng is a traditional Chinese plucked zither dating from the Qin dynasty. It is an ancestor of several other zither-like instruments found across East Asia such as the Japanese Koto, Kayagum in Korea and Dan Tranh in Vietnam. A modern Guzheng typically has 21 strings over movable bridges, mounted on large resonant half-tube box made of wu-tong wood and is typically about 1.7m long. Silk strings were originally used but modern guzhengs have metal strings or metal strings wrapped with nylon.

Players wear finger picks and the notes are generally plucked with the right hand. Sometimes virtuoso performers will use finger picks on both hands. Nowadays, the guzheng is played in style of traditional, classical, Jazz, Fusion, Pop, Hip-Hop and more. Guzheng players also adapted techniques from the piano and harp.