This presentation introduces students to the Guzheng, a traditional Chinese zither that is thousands of years old.
Students will watch a performance of traditional Chinese songs spanning centuries, and learn about the characteristics of the guzheng that make it unique: Water Sounds, Pitch Bends. Swings, and the Pentatonic scale.Students will contribute "sound images", inspired by nature, to create an improvised piece of music using the characteristics of the guzheng.
Following the performance, students will have an opportunity to ask questions, and try playing some of the guzheng techniques on their own.
| Grade Suitability | K-7 |
| Maximum Class Size | 20 |
| Time Required | 1 hr + 30 minutes prep |
| Material Required | 2 guzhengs (provided) |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Communities | Carcross, Carmacks, Haines Junction, Teslin |
Erica Mah has been studying traditional Chinese music at the Crystal Guzheng Centre since 2011. As the only guzheng player in the Yukon, she is excited to share her passion for the instrument with the community.
Erica earned her B.Ed. at OISE/UT in 2006, and loves bringing music into the classroom. Her other projects include being the Director of the Whitehorse Pop Choir, and teaching music classes at the Heart of Riverdale and Yukon Summer Music Camp.