Chinese Mandarin with Song

More people speak Chinese Mandarin as a first language than any other language. On the other hand, more people speak English as a second language than any other. However, Chinese songs are little known by non-native speakers, whereas you don’t have to be Irish to know how to sing Irish songs. (Download the 1-page PDF of the course description)

When I taught Chinese Mandarin as an adult evening course on Maui, I noticed that getting students to sing in a foreign language was easier than speaking it. Chinese Mandarin, as a tonal language, is easier to pronounce when sung than spoken. Learning Mandarin with Chinese songs is a fast track but enjoyable way to learn the language.

This 8-week course was given in Zoom in Fall 2022. The tuition included all sheet music of bespoke arrangements for ukulele by Anne Ku.

Learning Objectives

One of the best ways to learn about a culture is through its music. Get introduced to the very rich culture of China by learning beautiful songs, both traditional and popular.

• Pronounce pinyin lyrics correctly
• Get your unique Chinese name (surname and first name) if you don’t have one yet
• Learn about major and minor pentatonic scales
• Learn jian pu – the musical notation of Chinese songs
• No musical instrument is needed though focus is on the ukulele to pick out the melody.
• Build Chinese song repertoire
• Get introduced to Chinese culture

Testimonials

Some Chinese songs are translations of Western songs. Some are traditional folksongs. Some are current Pop Songs. We sampled all these, and more. Not only did we learn to speak fluent Chinese Mandarin, we also learned to sing in Chinese and play several different Chinese songs.– Steve (California)

As a retired person with plenty of spare time, I enjoy the challenge of learning something new.– Henry (England)

Anne is totally a dedicated, great instructor. She is knowledgeable, very patient and understands how to use different modalities and suggestions to help students learn how to play without feeling intimidated. She is supportive, creative and fun. She has the BEST interest in each of her students. She will help you decide which course you should take or start if you are not certain. Take any of her classes. You WON’T REGRET ! – Yvonne (Virginia)

This was a fun class to learn how to sing and play songs in Chinese. You can scratch many itches in one class – sing, play the ukulele, learn a different language, laugh, make new friends and spend time learning from Anne. – Susan (Maryland)

Anne is a warm, understanding and patient instructor for all backgrounds. Songs are cute and catchy; and can stay with you well after each class. Classmates were from across the country!
– YC, Boston, MA

A good start to understanding Mandarin through music. In this class, Anne opens up a world of Chinese music, which sounds right at home on the ukulele. She inspires with her warmth and enthusiasm, as well as her musicianship. – Katie, uke club organizer, San Francisco, CA