Curriculum
In the 2023-2024 school year, Yucai plans to offer two levels (Level 1 for beginners and Level 2 for intermediate-level students or higher) of Chinese classes for the after-school program. The textbooks, MeiZhou Chinese, are adopted for this program, which includes the textbook, students’ workbook, vocabulary flash cards and audio CD. 
Date ( Download One-page Calendar )
Yucai adheres to the academic calendar of the Wayzata School District, with classes commencing on September 5, 2023, and concluding on June 6, 2024. Chinese language instruction is provided from approximately 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. Additionally, after-class care is available from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM on those days. On Fridays, Yucai offers a music class designed to enhance students’ understanding of Chinese language and culture through the study of Chinese songs and folk instruments. 
Time, Class, Material Fees, and Tuitions
Day Time Class Material Fee Tuition
Monday-Thursday 2:30-4:00 PM Mei Zhou Chinese Level 1 (One Class for Beginners) $50 $2300
Monday-Thursday 2:30-4:00 PM Mei Zhou Chinese Level 2 (One Class for Intermediate-Level or Higher) $50 $2300
Monday-Thursday 4:00-5:00 PM After-class Care $1600
Friday 2:30-5:00 PM Discover Chinese Language and Culture Through Music $700

* ​All these options require a minimum enrollment of 10 students. If enrollment falls below this threshold, the class may be canceled or tuition may be adjusted to cover costs.  

Program Highlight: ​Discover Chinese Language and Culture through Music

Who are the instructors?
Mr. Xie is a renowned Jinghu virtuoso and a disciple of the celebrated Jinghu master, Tang Zaixin. Mrs. Hu is an accomplished Yueqin virtuoso. Both have participated in numerous performances worldwide and have over 20 years of experience teaching young students to play traditional folk instruments. In 2020, they moved to Minnesota and introduced traditional Chinese instruments to the local community and Yucai’s students. They take great pleasure in teaching Yucai’s students.

Who can attend this class?
All students, whether enrolled in our afterschool program or not, are welcome to join this class and discover Chinese language and culture through music. Students have the option to learn songs or play a traditional folk instrument.

What should students be prepared for the class? 
Our teachers will provide all necessary learning materials for students to learn Chinese songs. Students will also have the opportunity to explore various traditional folk instruments. For those interested in advancing their Erhu performance skills, instruments are available for rent or purchase.

Why choose to learn Chinese folk musical instruments?
Playing a musical instrument improves memory, relieves stress, builds confidence, and makes your life fun. We are lucky to have two well-known teachers who can teach a variety of folk musical instruments, which will help you learn not only a unique musical instrument but also the Chinese culture and music theory. We will provide many performance opportunities throughout your musical journey.      

What are the goals of this class? 
At the beginning, students will be devided into two groups to learn erhu or singing. As students become more skilled, they will perform together as a band. Ultimately, we want students to enjoy music, learn how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with their bandmates. Students will build unique bonding experiences during rehearsals and performances. ​By working together towards common goals and adhering to rehearsal commitments and practice routines, students will develop good practice habits. Additionally, this class offers a unique opportunity for students to learn Chinese through the lens of music.

Er Hu

二胡

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Jing Hu

京胡

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Yue Qin

月琴

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Zhong Ruan

中阮

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Gu Zheng

古筝

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Yang Qin

扬琴

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