Hong
Zhang
This
workshop will introduce the groundbreaking approach of teaching Chinese through
song. Participants will go through a step-by-step learning progression to
obtain the basics of vocal techniques, including posture, breathing, voice
projection, and singing expression. This workshop will be highly engaging and
interactive. After a PowerPoint presentation of this innovative approach,
participants will stand up and start to warm up their voices. Their roles will shift
from choral singers, to soloists, to chorus conductors, and finally, returning
to language teachers furnished with new approach and strategy. The instructor
will demonstrate singing and conducting at the podium, but will mainly walk
around to function as the "guide on the side," rather than as a
"sage on the stage." The participants will walk away with the
confidence and skills to create a course of Chinese through Song, form a
Chinese chorus, or teach students a few songs as cultural activities. Their
students will improve pronunciation, diction, voice projection, and language
expression by singing Chinese songs, and enhance their interests in Chinese
music and culture.