On Friday afternoon, January 17, 2025, the Multi-Function Hall (MFH) at UISG came alive with the sounds of music, dance, and festive cheer as our Primary students, along with friends from UNC, presented an exciting Chinese New Year Music Festival.
The event, which showcased a wide array of talents and performances, was a resounding success, drawing enthusiastic applause from parents and guests alike. The festival beautifully blended traditional Chinese elements with modern performances, offering a rich cultural experience for all in attendance.
The show kicked off with Year 4 students delivering a powerful instrumental and vocal ensemble, performing the inspiring songs “Brave” and “Best Day of My Life.” This was followed by Year 3’s lively three-song medley, setting an upbeat tone for the rest of the event.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the energetic Lion Dance performed by Year 1 Yellow students, bringing the spirit of Chinese New Year to life on stage. Year 1 Red continued the festive theme with a heartwarming rendition of “Yuan Ri,” a traditional New Year song.
Our youngest performers also shone brightly, with K3 students charming the audience with their cute performance of “Shǔ Yāzi” (Counting Ducks). The festival featured a mix of group and solo performances, including a mesmerizing Guzheng solo by Evie, showcasing the beauty of traditional Chinese music.
The Primary School Choir’s rendition of “China in the Light” was another standout moment, filling the hall with harmonious voices. K2 and Casa students delighted everyone with a graceful Lantern Dance, while selected Year 2 students surprised the audience with an impressive hip hop dance routine.
The diversity of performances continued with selected K3 students presenting an elegant Chinese dance, followed by an acrobatic dance from K, K1, and IC students that left the audience in awe. Year 2 students demonstrated their coordination and rhythm with a captivating hand tutt performance.
Before concluding the show, we were entertained by a surprise guest Liu Xiao Long, who is a Changing Face master. A brilliant gem in traditional Chinese opera art, the art of changing faces attracts countless audiences with its unique charm and profound cultural heritage. It not only showcases the artistic charm of Chinese opera but also conveys the cultural essence and spiritual outlook of the Chinese nation.
The festival concluded on a high note with all participants joining in for the closing song, “To Give Is to Gain,” emphasizing the spirit of community and sharing that is central to Chinese New Year celebrations.
The UISG Primary Chinese New Year Music Festival was not just a showcase of talent, but also a celebration of cultural diversity and community spirit. As we enter the Year of the Snake, this event has certainly set a festive and harmonious tone for the year ahead.
Mr. Ian and Ms. Jessie
Performing Arts: Music
