On the afternoon of June 20, 2025, the Confucius Institute at T.A. Marryshow Community College hosted its first Chinese Singing Competition. Centered around the theme “A Decade of Glory, Singing in Harmony”, the event attracted enthusiastic participation from students across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The atmosphere at the venue was vibrant, with rounds of applause echoing throughout the event.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Ms. Jiang Yan, Director at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Grenada, and Attaché Ms. He Yijun; Dr. Telesford, Vice Principal of TAMCC; Mr. Ambrose, Grenadian Director of the Confucius Institute; Mrs. De Gale-Philip, Co-director of the Confucius Institute; Mr. Mignon, Computer Science Lecturer at TAMCC; and all Chinese teachers of the Confucius Institute. The competition was hosted by CI volunteer teacher Ms. Niu Wanlin and CI student Mr. Kareem Sharpe. Dr. Fan Jiang, Resident Director of the Confucius Institute, and Mr. Ambrose delivered the opening and closing remarks, respectively.
During the competition, contestants gave heartfelt performances of classic Chinese songs such as “Tian Mi Mi,” “Friends,” “The Wind Rises,” “As Wished,” and “My Future Is Not a Dream.” Their singing reflected a deep love for the Chinese language and a strong resonance with Chinese culture. Contestants were widely praised by judges and audience members alike for their expressive stage presence and accurate pronunciation. Judges scored performances based on pronunciation and intonation, artistic expression, and stage charisma.
In the end, Jennive James-Thomas and Hosea Sylvester won first prize, while other contestants received second and third prizes. Judges noted that the participants demonstrated remarkable talent and potential in both language and music, leaving a lasting impression.
By singing in Chinese, students not only improved their language proficiency but also drew closer to Chinese culture. It is hoped that through this event, more students will find joy in learning Chinese and experience the beauty of Chinese culture through music. Art brings light to life, and emotion brings warmth to the heart.
This singing competition was not only a key part of the Confucius Institute’s 10th anniversary celebration but also a vibrant highlight of campus culture at the T. A. Marryshow Community College. Looking ahead, the Confucius Institute will continue to organize more events that integrate language, culture, and the arts, injecting fresh energy into cultural exchange between China and Grenada.