Bahasa Mandarin - The Mandarin Language Student Association (HUASHAN) at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) organized a Study Tour (学习之旅) for students from the 2022 cohort on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. The activity was part of the field-based component of the Chinese Music and Crafts course, designed to provide students with first-hand learning experiences in traditional Chinese music.


As part of the program, HUASHAN collaborated with Jade Music Academy as a learning partner. The collaboration provided students with opportunities to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in exploring traditional Chinese musical instruments.


During the visit, students were introduced to various traditional Chinese string instruments, including the Guzheng (古筝). Instructors from Jade Music Academy provided explanations of the instrument's history and characteristics, basic plucking techniques, and an introduction to traditional Chinese musical notation.


The learning experience extended beyond theoretical instruction. Students were given the opportunity to play the Guzheng themselves under the guidance of professional instructors. This hands-on practice created a more interactive learning environment while helping students develop an understanding of the fundamental techniques involved in playing the traditional instrument.


The students showed strong enthusiasm throughout the practical session. They attentively followed the instructors’ guidance and practiced the plucking techniques demonstrated during the session. The activity also enabled students to connect the knowledge gained in the classroom with practical experience in the field.


As a gesture of appreciation for the support and collaboration provided, representatives of the Mandarin Language Study Program presented a commemorative plaque to Jade Music Academy.


The study tour concluded with a group photo involving the Jade Music Academy instructors, HUASHAN committee members, and all participating students.


Through this activity, students are expected to develop not only academic competence in Mandarin Language studies but also a broader understanding of Chinese culture. Direct exposure to traditional Chinese music serves as an important means of fostering cultural appreciation and enriching students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of language, arts, and culture.