Preserving Culture, Empowering Youth: WCSA’s Chinese Arts Program thrives with Folklorama support

Cultural Preservation Fund, Featured

Thanks to the generous support of the Folklorama Cultural Preservation Fund, the Winnipeg Chinese Senior Association (WCSA) has brought to life a new and exciting initiative to pass on traditional Chinese arts to the younger generation.

The project aims to build cultural pride, strengthen identity, and create real community connections through hands-on learning. It currently features two youth groups—an Ensemble and a Calligraphy Group. With limited funding, we’ve focused our energy on the Chinese Music Instruments Ensemble, which beautifully bridges seniors and youth.

Every week, under the guidance of experienced instructor Ms. Lei Zhu—who served as CoPerformance Chair for the Chinese Pavilion in 2023—the ensemble gathers at Southlands Community Church for 1–2 hours of music and practice. Two other members also graced the Pavilion stage that year, and together, the nine-member team now includes two seniors, three adults in their 30s, and four teenagers. With the new term starting in September, more eager members are expected to join. Best of all, enrollment is free and open to anyone who loves traditional Chinese instruments and music.

Over the spring and summer, four young participants not only learned how to play but also came to understand the history and heritage behind the music. The teamwork and enthusiasm in this group have been inspiring, and their performances capture the grace and charm of Chinese traditional music.

“We didn’t just learn how to play the instruments, but also the stories behind them,” one student shared. “It made me feel more connected to my roots.”

The ensemble has already brought their music to life at major community events, including WCSA’s Chinese New Year Gala, Canada Day Celebration, and the Manitoba Asian Festival— where youth and elders proudly shared the stage. Coming up, they’ll perform at the MidAutumn Festival and the Double Ninth Festival. These intergenerational showcases have drawn hundreds of people, sparking pride and sparking interest across the community.

By weaving together art, history, and community, this project shows how cultural heritage can strengthen identity and bring people closer together. “We’re proud to see young people becoming ambassadors of their culture,” said a WCSA board member. “Thanks to Folklorama’s funding through the Cultural Preservation Fund, we’ve been able to make that happen in a way that’s both joyful and impactful.”

Looking ahead, WCSA is eager to keep building on this success—to ensure that Chinese traditions stay alive, meaningful, and vibrant for generations to come. And we look forward to watching this talented local ensemble light up the Folklorama stage and many other festivals in the years ahead.