TCML-Jersey Shore Chinese School Singing Competition Showcases Students’ Mandarin Learning Achievements and Confidence
The TCML-Jersey Shore Chinese School announced the results of the “TCML-Jersey Shore Singing Competition” on May 9. This was the first singing competition organized by the TCML, designed to encourage students to apply their Mandarin skills through musical performance. By expressing themselves through melody, lyrics, and emotion, participants demonstrated both their Mandarin learning achievements and growing confidence.
Paul Dawson won first place with his performance of WeiBird’s song “Have You Ever” (You Mei You). His sincere emotional expression and steady performance earned high praise from the judges. Second place went to Kathrine Lin, who performed “Sorry, My Mandarin Is Not Very Good.” The song’s content closely reflected the experiences of Mandarin learners, bringing smiles to the judges and resonating with them on a personal level.
Jiang Haining, Director of Jersey Shore TCML, stated that the most important part of learning a language is being willing to speak it, and singing is an excellent way to practice. She noted that the competition was more than just a singing performance—it marked an important milestone in the students’ Mandarin learning journey. Every student who chose to sing a Mandarin song demonstrated courage and dedication. She expressed hope that the event would inspire participants to continue their enthusiasm for learning, incorporate Mandarin into their daily lives, and sing in Mandarin with increasing naturalness and emotion.
Many TCML students were inspired by the contestants and shared that they would work even harder to improve their Mandarin skills. They also expressed their hope of confidently participating in future competitions and taking the stage to sing in Mandarin themselves.
Jiang also encouraged students to participate in the “Singing Competition for Overseas Compatriot School Students and Overseas Compatriot Students Studying in Taiwan” organized by the Overseas Community Affairs Council. She hopes students will bring their TCML learning achievements to a larger stage, connect with Mandarin learners from around the world, and showcase the vitality of overseas Mandarin education through music.
The singing competition combined song-based learning, cultural presentations, and interactive activities. It not only helped students improve their Mandarin proficiency through music but also allowed them to appreciate the beauty of Taiwanese culture through melodies and lyrics. Looking ahead, TCML-Jersey Shore Chinese School will continue to promote diverse and practical Mandarin-learning activities, helping students build confidence and enjoy the process of learning Mandarin in a relaxed and engaging environment.
