At The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao, student clubs are designed with the philosophy of “everything for the children,” allowing students to joyfully gain knowledge through hands-on experiences. On November 17, the school organized a unique cross-disciplinary “Autumn Museum Tour” that combined history, music, and nature, offering students a rich and diverse learning experience. More than 40 students and parents embarked on this cultural and historical exploration together under the school’s guidance.
The Resonance of Music and History
The first stop on the tour was the Qingdao Impression Museum, a place that not only serves as a treasure trove of the city’s historical transformations but also an ideal venue for cross-disciplinary learning. The museum tour was led by the head of the school’s Academic Department, an expert in the city’s history, who provided insightful explanations. Students learned about significant historical events such as “The German Occupation of Jiaozhou Bay,” “The East Asian Front in World War I,” and “The May Fourth Movement.” The museum’s rich exhibits blended patriotism with history, allowing the students to feel the evolution of time on a deep level.
Throughout the museum visit, music was a consistent thread tying the experience together. The students discovered that Qingdao has played a vital role in China’s musical development, producing many renowned musicians such as Tan Shuzhen and Lu Siqing. They also learned about the impact of Western music education from countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States on Qingdao, helping them understand how music can bridge different cultures and eras. This cross-disciplinary approach sparked the students’ deeper reflections on the relationship between history and music, providing them with rich cultural nourishment as they continue their journey toward becoming “future musicians.”
The Fusion of Nature and Culture
After enjoying afternoon tea, the group headed to Xiaoyu Hill Park in Qingdao, a landmark that beautifully symbolizes the fusion of nature and culture. From the hilltop, the students were treated to a breathtaking view of Qingdao’s coastline and cityscape, feeling the beauty of autumn in the city as it intertwined with its historical legacy. While at the park, five students from different disciplines—violinist Wang Qi, classical guitarist Qi Chuanping, classical guitarist Li Mingduojie, trumpet player Hu Tingzhang, and clarinetist Yang Chengxi—took out their instruments and performed impromptu pieces for the crowd. Their music seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings, offering an impromptu classical music performance that delighted visitors.
In line with the school’s holistic education philosophy, The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao encourages students to enrich others’ lives through music. By performing in the park, the students experienced firsthand how music can build confidence, showcase talent, and spread joy to others.
This “Museum Tour” was more than just a simple visit; it was a vivid demonstration of Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao’s commitment to holistic education. Through cross-disciplinary learning, the students experienced the power of knowledge and the joy of learning through the lenses of history, music, and nature. Parents also shared how meaningful such activities are for their children’s growth, highlighting the immense value of integrating cultural education with real-world practice. Looking ahead, Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao will continue organizing similar activities to help students grow into well-rounded musicians.
