In an innovative move, the Songshan campus of Harbin University for the Aged in Heilongjiang province, northeastern China, is capturing the hearts of many with its unique offering: a music course tailored for senior citizens, complete with karaoke classes. This novel curriculum is part of a broader array of educational opportunities provided by the university, which caters to an elderly demographic keen on enriching their post-retirement lives.
Since opening its doors for the current semester in August, the university has seen a remarkable influx of 38,580 mature students, ranging in age from 45 to 90 years old. These students have enrolled in a diverse range of 118 courses, including dance, calligraphy, video shooting, yoga, and, notably, the newly launched karaoke class.
The karaoke course, designed to be accessible and enjoyable, consists of three parts. It starts with the basics of reading music scores, followed by vocal practice, and then delves into various singing techniques. Qi Xin, the director of the campus, notes that each course is comprised of 16 lessons, priced at an affordable 90 yuan (about US$13) per course, accommodating up to 42 students.
The class is taught by Huang Nannan, an experienced vocal instructor at the university for four years. Huang’s 90-minute karaoke lessons, held twice a week, focus on popular songs that require minimal technical skills. This approach ensures that students with limited singing experience can quickly grasp the basics and enjoy the process of learning and singing.
The initiative to start a karaoke course stemmed from the common sight of elderly groups enjoying singing sessions at KTVs, a popular form of entertainment in China. Recognizing the joy and community it brought to the seniors, the university decided to incorporate karaoke into its curriculum.
Social media users in mainland China have warmly received this news, with many expressing admiration and interest in the course. Some users have even considered recommending the class to their parents, highlighting the appeal of such creative and engaging activities for the elderly.
The introduction of such unconventional courses is not new to Chinese educational institutions. In the past, universities have launched various unique programs, including an “internet celebrity” program and a weight-loss course, both aimed at addressing specific contemporary issues and interests.
Harbin University for the Aged’s karaoke course is more than just a class; it’s a testament to the institution’s commitment to creating a vibrant, fulfilling, and socially engaging environment for senior citizens. It represents a significant step towards acknowledging and catering to the diverse interests and needs of the elderly population.
READ MORE: