More and more students in Germany are now learning Chinese. At Luisenschule, a middle school in the nothern German city of Essen, 20 percent of the 600 students are studying the one of the hardest and most spoken languages in the world. Some passionate students even started up a Chinese choir.
The Chinese Choir of Luisenschule began in September 2013. The initial aim was to help students practice Chinese tones through singing Chinese songs.
Today the choir has rehearsed more than 20 classic Chinese songs. And more and more students have joined the choir.
"I joined the choir in 2013. I really like singing Chinese songs. And my favourite is 'Let us sway twin oars'. Both the lyrics and the melody are very beautiful," said Leopold Raab, student.
At Luisenschule, a middle school in the nothern German city of Essen, 20 percent of the 600 students are studying the one of the hardest and most spoken languages in the world. Some passionate students even started up a Chinese choir.
"I can play some 20 Chinese songs, 'Farewell' is my favourite," said Patrick Martin, student.
By learning Chinese songs, the students not only improve their Chinese tones, but also have a better understanding of Chinese culture.
"Singing is a great way to learn a foreign language. It's like a comprehensive study of China, the Chinese language and the Chinese culture," said Anja Wehrend, teacher.