Chinese Music Classroom
United by the universal language of music
Established in April 2020, the Chinese Music Classroom is a collaborative initiative jointly founded by the Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM) in China and Chetham’s School of Music. Its mission is to integrate the world-class music education resources of both institutions and to serve as a “Sino-British incubator for future music talents” through professional instruction, concerts, competitions, festivals, and more. The project is committed to promoting youth music education, cultural exchange, and contributing to the diversity of global arts.
From 17 to 21 September 2021, the Chinese Music Classroom held its official launch celebration in Manchester. Despite the global challenges posed by the pandemic, it has continued to flourish, delivering a variety of impactful online and in-person events such as the “Echoes of Harmony: UK-China Online Music & Academic Exchange Series” and the “UK-China Youth Music Week and Composition Showcase”. Since 2023, the programme has also initiated regular faculty and student exchange visits between the two schools, fostering dialogue and collaboration across performance, composition, and music education.
In addition, the Chinese Music Classroom has launched a series of innovative curriculum offerings at Chetham’s, including Chinese language, Chinese song choral studies, and Chinese music appreciation. It has also worked closely with various departments to present cultural activities themed around Chinese music and language. These have significantly enhanced students’ understanding of Chinese arts and culture, and have been warmly welcomed by the school community.
In October 2025, the newly reopened Whiteley Hall became home to the Chinese Music Classroom. Looking ahead, the Chinese Music Classroom will continue to expand its platform and activities across multiple domains, creating new opportunities for young musicians in China and the UK to learn from one another, grow together, and shine on the world stage.
Whiteley Hall, October 2025
Instruments and Specialisms Offered
- Chinese Language Course
- Chinese Culture Course
- Choir
- Chinese music appreciation and culture
- Cross-cultural ensemble performanc
Staff List
Ms. Sophia Kuai
- Chinese Director, Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s;
- Lecturer in Chinese Language and Culture；
- Associate Professor of English at the Central Conservatory of Music
Ms. Mimi Jiang
- Choral Teacher & Ensemble Coordinator;
- Associate Professor in the Department of Music Education at the Central Conservatory of Music
