2019

My name is Rachel Chung, and I have been an Erhu player of FYCO for almost 11 years now. It’s unbelievable how fast time has past and how much I’ve grown since joining when I was only 7 years old. I still remember Liu laoshi painting red nail polish on my strings so that I would know where to place my fingers. It feels like just yesterday we were in the old building practicing on warm, sunny, Sunday afternoons. I practically grew up at FYCO and it feels strange thinking about not coming to practice anymore on Saturday nights next year. For me, FYCO has been more than just a place to enjoy playing music. It has been a place to immerse myself in Chinese language and culture, learn about hard work and good work ethics, and make long-lasting friendships as well as memories. Some of my favorite memories are from the rehearsals in the old theatre and performance days at the California Theatre, which included walking to the park and eating lunch. Even though most of my close friends that I’ve known since elementary school have already left for college, we still keep in touch and it’s always fun when they come back to visit. Although my journey with FYCO is almost over, I will always remember all of the fun times and good memories!

For ten years, I have been a sheng player in FYCO. For the first four of those years, I was the only sheng player in my group for rehearsals. I didn't mind; figuring out how to handle this strange and unique instrument to produce the best sounds kept me busy, and I simply focused on improving my own skills, looking forward to performing more complex and interesting pieces in the more experienced groups. When younger players eventually joined the orchestra, I was happy to give them tips and demonstrate techniques. The parts of each instrument in Chinese music don't always seem coordinated: many pieces feature staggered or separate melodies among instrument sections. In order to perform these pieces well and form the intended harmony and rhythm, all musicians must pay attention to their own part, the conductor, as well as where every other player is in the piece. This is what always keeps the music engaging and exciting to play for me.

I am very grateful to FYCO for having provided me with an opportunity to interact with and listen to such a wide variety of instruments and music, as well as perform at so many different venues, from libraries to theaters. Chinese music and culture have been such a large part of my childhood and teenage years, I would not be who I am today without FYCO. I have learned to listen, to project, and to synchronize with others that I could not have otherwise, and I hope that others will find FYCO to be just as enriching an experience as I have.

I was a clueless shy fourth grader when I first joined FYCO. As the only boy who played Pipa, I felt out of place for a very long time, and my introverted personality tended to dislike the spotlight. Over the years, my perseverance with FYCO opened up doors to opportunities such as an appearance on NBC, and my most vivid memories with FYCO cultural exchange trips to Taiwan and Yunnan, China. It was there where I performed an Eminem song live, that I learned music knows no bounds in language. Through these experiences and over several years I slowly broke out of a shell of insecurity. Eventually, I was no longer reluctant, but eager to perform. I began to enjoy the performing arts.

My time with FYCO has molded me into a new person. My discovered passion of performing arts has even helped me along the way in new endeavors like dance. It is hard to imagine leaving FYCO after this last performance, when it has been with me for the past nine years. Had I not persevered to stay with the orchestra every week, I may still be the shy boy, not wanting to be seen at all.

Music has been an influential part of my life since I was young. When I joined FYCO in the summer between 3rd and 4th grade, I had no idea what the next nine years would be like. Throughout these years in orchestra, I learned to be confident when performing in front of people, to stay dedicated when practicing a new piece, and to work with others to achieve goals. Most of all, I was able to learn about the significance behind the music and connect with my cultural heritage. I want to thank my family and friends for always supporting me. I would also like to thank Kuo Laoshi and Li Laoshi for teaching me how to play the dizi and guiding me throughout the years. Lastly, I would like to thank everyone for making my experience at FYCO so wonderful. I will truly miss my time in orchestra, but I know that I will be able to apply the lessons that I learned here throughout college and beyond.

I started learning the liuqin with FYCO when I was around seven years old but soon quit because I wanted to but couldn’t play the suona, which my brother played. In 9th grade I then joined FYCO again to play suona. In between those years I learned to play trumpet through school bands and various styles of western teaching, playing, and conducting. Adapting to the different styles of teaching was not too tough. Learning to play a completely dissimilar wind instrument from one I had been conditioned to was tough as it required more far more energy and wind to just make a sound. Since then I have improved drastically in playing suona. I originally joined just to follow my brother but soon it became about the culture. I have enjoyed my time playing for FYCO and meeting new people.

Though I’ve played the viola since 7th grade, YOSV was my first orchestra experience. I was excited to learn a new aspect of playing the viola than what I had previously been learning with my teacher. I really did learn a lot-about rhythm, tone, and storytelling. I remember always being confused on why Jeremy would talk about the background of a new piece we were starting for so long, but I soon learned that knowing the background of a piece was really instrumental in the way it is played. Not only did I learn a lot, but I feel like I am part of a little community. Throughout my four years, we played many different types of music, which was a really valuable experience. A part of attending orchestra meant performances, which meant performing in front of large groups of people - something I didn’t really like to do. I remember the excited jitters before every performance and the happiness and relief after a particularly good performance. I’d like to thank Jeremy for this experience. Throughout my time here, it was apparent to see how much he cares about music and the students. Orchestra on Saturdays has become a routine in my life for the last four years, and I hope to carry on what I’ve learned into the next part of my life.

We’d discussed it several times before, but now I was preparing to graduate elementary school, and my parents were becoming more and more keen on sending me to high school in the US. It became a more frequent topic of discussion. They instilled in me the idea that high school life in China would be much more difficult for me than in the US. I wasn’t sure of anything, only confused. I followed my parents' suggestion; I tried reasoning with myself that they knew best, and I did want to have the best future I could have. The challenges that came with the adjustment were radically understated. In the United States, no one had ever heard of a Sheng. I should have expected as much, but hadn’t considered it when I packed my Sheng for the move. These kinds of discoveries, created distance between me and this new country, and came on like a flood each day. Between strangled conversations with strangers in English, I couldn’t help thinking my move was a curse. It was bad enough to be unfamiliar with the world around me, but I felt choked by the new language. Having been forced to skip a grade because of my age, I felt even further removed from the classmates who walked the halls with me. Every word I stumbled over was a reminder that I wasn’t able to express myself — least of all with my Sheng. I considered learning to play the saxophone or flute instead, but couldn’t bring myself to compromise all of my years of training, and the intimate connection I had developed with the instrument. Still, there was something strange now when I thought about playing the Sheng that wasn’t there before when I was back home.

Each day I left the house from the garage I would try to keep the long, dark Sheng case out of my peripheral vision. The thin film of dust on the dormant mass was heartbreaking to contemplate. The lacquered case contained so many memories that had become distant and muffled until they fell silent. My least favorite part of my day was watching the choir and bands prepare for upcoming performances, knowing that I was once one of those students: focused, daily sharpening my skills and being in touch with music. It was agony to long to play the Sheng for an audience, but not feeling like I was permitted to express myself.

Daily life in the US was a challenge, and I didn’t expect any reprieve. When my counselor recommended to me Firebird Chinese Youth Orchestra, it didn’t occur to me right away that I should perform, that this was my chance. Within a week, however, the realization grew on me that the perfect opportunity had finally come to blow the dust off of my Sheng. The prospect of playing again invigorated me in a way I hadn’t been since I’d moved to this country, invigorated me in a way I didn’t think would be possible in this stifling place.

I was soon performing for the first time in the US. When the day of the crucial performance arrived, I put on the same Chinese style garments and held Sheng in my hand again, feeling its weight and smooth keys the way I had years ago, back in China. I sat down, thinking of not the notes but the story locked within the song. I took a deep breath and started playing the same song I played for the level ten proficiency exam. The slow start of the song brings the quiet prairie into view. Then, a Mongolian rhythm kicks in with a monophonic melody that spins a lonely dancer into being, rambling around the campfire as the sun begins to set. Gradually, the song quickens as more nomads exit the Mongolian yurts to join him while the sky blackens above. The revelry heightens with everyone living it up, drinking Kumis (horse milk alcohol) and gorging themselves on lamb. Finally, the story ends with a nod to the introductory motif as midnight approaches and tranquility is restored on the grassland.

When I returned to the stage from the imaginary world of the piece, I heard the first applause I had ever received. Unexpectedly, I attracted students, teachers, and parents to ask me questions about my exotic instrument, and asked to take pictures with it. Intoxicated with encouragement, I found myself spilling out Sheng’s history, cultural importance, and acoustic mechanism before I could even think to catch myself.

From this triumphant moment, I began to open the door to public performance wider and wider. Every performance now was like my solo at the Cultural Festival at my school. Each time I reached deeper and deeper into the story of the pieces and enjoyed playing music for the satisfaction of expression. My training and my experience communicating through music empowered me to tap into what was real and alive within songs, and what was real and alive in myself. I felt freer now than I ever had. It was sad that I’d come to the realization of music’s value too soon — just before I’d have to move across the world where I was less equipped to express myself — but still, I felt the revelation was more potent for the adversity of being stuck in a new, unfamiliar place where I didn’t feel like I was free to be, speak or play as myself. I learned to play the Sheng without the fear I used to have of myself, without the fear of being a stranger, and I feel more ready to take on anything that I ever had before: to be myself and to show the world what I am capable of.

2018

Graduation Speech
Ever since my big brother joined FYCO in 2002, I would spend my Saturday nights at SJCC watching him play the dizi. Once I turned 6, I finally officially joined and started learning the erhu. My memories of these past 11 years with FYCO have always been positive, from running to snack lines to finally finishing a piece with minimal error. I didn’t expect learning erhu to be such a long journey. I was able to make some of my closest friends, serve the community, and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese music. I also had amazing trips to Taiwan and China. Thank you to Liu Laoshi for being so kind and patient throughout these years. Thank you to all my classmates for being supportive. I had so much fun together along my journey. The experience I had with FYCO will accompany me much further into the future.

Graduation Speech
Hello! My name is Emily Gu and I’m graduating this year from Lynbrook High School. I will be studying human biology in college. My experiences in this orchestra for the past 10-11 years have influenced me greatly, both musically and culturally. Playing the erhu has become one of my best forms of expression, and is a hobby I will continue all my life. I am forever grateful for all the friends I’ve made during my time here, and I will remember all the memories I’ve made during rehearsals, concerts, and summer tours.

Graduation Speech
When I started, I had no idea what I was getting into. I had no musical experience beforehand, and doubted that this was to be a long-term hobby. Classes were long and I finished last place on every test. Sitting at the edges of the ensemble hall, I felt small and insignificant. Half the time I wasn’t even playing. What we sounded like then, I have long forgotten. But I remember the day when the entire orchestra followed Gordon’s hand motions the way he wanted us to. When the strings played and the wind section responded, I felt strangely happy, like I finally found a place where I belonged.For my 11 years, my legacy is relatively small. I haven’t done much to lead my section, nor contribute to the orchestra’s “prestige.” However, FYCO has impacted my life beyond my wildest expectations. I’m more open to both to criticism and conversation. I have seen how much fun I could have with friends, even in mundane situations. I have realized the importance of being proactive, when without direction. Music, like other aspects of life, is multifaceted and better when shared.

Graduation Speech
My mother first brought me to watch FYCO’s performance when I was 8 years old. I was simply fascinated with the strange yet interesting instruments, which was the reason I joined FYCO 10 years ago, but it certainly does not feel like that long. As a Pipa player since third grade, I dedicated my Saturday nights to go to private lessons and orchestra ensemble practices. Through FYCO, I was even able to perform with my orchestra abroad in Taiwan and China, my first time going to China, and it was so exhilarating to meet players from other countries who had the same passion for music as me. I also created long-lasting friendships with the people in my orchestra. Even though I spent basically a decade of my life playing this instrument, I have no regrets; the Pipa has taught me about Chinese music and I have grown to appreciate it over these years. I have played at several senior homes, community libraries, and even at my school’s ‘Bridge Night,’ which exposed the Asian culture to those who were unfamiliar to it. I am so thankful for the teachers, conductors, and all the parents who have made FYCO possible and I hope that it will continue to grow in the future. Although I may be leaving, I am definitely looking forward to coming back and seeing how the orchestra has improved.

Graduation Speech
Even before joining FYCO in 2008, I was already unofficially joining in; watching my sisters during rehearsal, while wailing along back in 2002. As I grew with the orchestra, so did my love for Chinese music and the cultural backstory behind each song that we performed. The 2013 Taiwan tour was an unforgettable adventure playing with three different orchestras in Tainan, Taipei, Hsinchu. Thank you to my parents and my sisters for introducing me to this new world of music, and Zhao Yangqin for teaching me patiently. For future FYCO students, I hope they will also appreciate how lucky we all are to be able to be a part of a community, a family bringing beautiful music and culture to the world. FYCO taught me more than how to play my Yangqin, to look at the conductor when I am lost in the music, and how to hear, lead and communicate with other members of the orchestra. Lastly, FYCO has showed me the happiness I can experience performing the music I love for the people I love on stage. Although my journey with FYCO stops here, my love for Chinese music will continue and I hope to bring my joy of performing it wherever I go.

I have been at FYCO for 9 years. I play erhu and zhonghu. Those 9 years have given me a love for the erhu and zhonghu that I will continue to have for the rest of my life. I am very thankful for my time with this orchestra and the friends and memories it has given me.

In FYCO, I’ve matured as a musician and into an adult. At first, I felt indifferent to my role; however, I soon realized the dizi carried an extraordinary weight in the overall melodic tunes produced by the orchestra, and I needed to work hard to produce the results everyone wants. I recall many invested hours perfecting the expression and techniques that refine a piece. I’m a more confident performer, and more perceptive of other members of the orchestra. At times I dreaded practicing, but the results were pleasing and I’ll never regret doing it. Instead of hanging out with friends on Saturday nights, I would gladly turn down their offer to join FYCO in weekly rehearsals. Lastly, I’d like to thank the organization for teaching me about traditional Chinese instruments and helping shape me as a person. Thank you, and I know that I’ll definitely miss the precious time I spent here.

Graduation Speech
I have been in FYCO for the past 8 years, and I can confidently say that it helped shape me into the person that I am today. From the weekly practices to the cultural exchanges, I enjoyed being a part of the FYCO family. I learned more about Chinese culture and music while making friends that shared similar interests. Thank you FYCO for the memories and sparking my love for music.

For the past six years, FYCO has brought me great happiness and joy. Of pastimes, playing music is one activity I genuinely enjoy. Music is special in its universal ability to heal, not only listeners but performers as well. Music expresses emotions that words fail to describe; it speaks to our hearts in fascinatingly different ways. Whenever I am having a bad day, coming to rehearsals and slamming those sticks on the yangqin would always brighten up my mood. As I became busier, my passion for yangqin never faded, and playing music became an outlet for school stress. On the Taiwan trip, I got to play percussion, one of my favorite parts of being in FYCO. Playing different instruments let me to approach a piece from new different perspectives. I can appreciate each tiny detail, dynamic change, or touch of percussion in music so much more now. Through FYCO, I made incredible friendships and memories in a super supportive community. I am so grateful for all the instructors, musicians, and parents that made my time at FYCO so fun and memorable. Even though I am graduating, I will forever be a proud supporter of FYCO. I firmly believe that FYCO’s music will continue on to inspire and bring happiness to many more lives.

Graduation Speech
The very first day, I had no idea what it would be like. As a young innocent little seventh grader with no social skills, I was scared for what would happen. Would I embarrass myself on the first day and not make any friends? As I stepped into class, I was greeted by a smiling teacher and a group of eager classmates. That’s when I realized that I was going to have a great time. In my six years, I've made friends and have had hundreds of fun and crazy experiences. I've climbed mountains, befriended a professional dizi player in Yunnan, danced with waiters on a disco floor, hosted movie nights in my hotel room, played truth or dare too loudly at 2 am, and on. As I go to college, I will always cherish my precious time at FYCO.

Being in FYCO has taught me the importance of discipline, time management, responsibility and giving to others. My time here has been full of fun and unique experiences that have taught me a lot about my Chinese culture. I’ve learned multiple instruments: the erhu, cello, and piano, taught by talented teachers who have passed their passions down to me. A big part of my successes in life is influenced by the FYCO community and has shaped me into the person I am today. I will carry on the FYCO legacy with me to college at UC Berkeley, and for the rest of my life.

2017

I have been with FYCO for the past 10 years, although it certainly does not feel quite that long. Somehow, a decade’s worth of Saturday nights have passed and I cannot help but feel eternally grateful for the amount of joy that these nights of practicing Chinese music has brought me. My instruments, the Liuqin and Zhongruan, have taught me lessons of dedication and perseverance. I have also learned to appreciate the results that come from hard work.  It is always fun to go to performances with the rest of the orchestra and show off our unique music after hours of practicing together. Although it feels bittersweet to leave after being part of this orchestra for so long, I am excited to come visit in the coming years to see how FYCO will grow.

It has been a fun ten years; from racing to snack-time to traveling to Taiwan, from blistered fingers to nerve-wracking finals, and from practicing alone to playing with friends—thank you.

FYCO has shown me that music is more than just an activity – it is a way of thought. It has the power to tell a story that can influence others in inconceivable ways, breaking down the barriers that set us apart. You learn to hear the melodies with local ears and immerse yourself in the rich heritage hidden beneath each measure. The East and the West do not know much about each other, but through traditional Chinese music, I was able to gain a deeper appreciation towards my heritage. Words cannot express how thankful I am for all the time and effort that the teachers, parents, and students have put in to make this orchestra thrive..

2016

I joined FYCO since I was in elementary, my mom was in a Chinese orchestra when she was a student and loves Chinese instruments, so she brought us into this music world. I was ok with it then, but didn’t have much idea about what the Chinese music will be like. Throughout these long years, I learned and played different instruments; DiZi, Chinese drum set, Big Drum, Timpani, Cymbals, etc.; attended various stage performances, joined the community services and the unforgettable Taiwan culture exchange trip. I am very glad that I have this precious opportunity to learn the Chinese music in my life and to be part of the FYCO big family, people also told me I become a more outgoing person since I was very quiet when younger.

One precious memory in my FYCO performance is for the time I was playing the Chinese Drum Set and the Big Drum for the song – Harvest Drum “豐收鑼鼓”. From a fully quiet audience atmosphere, my big drum starts the music, from a big loud sound to lower fast speed 滾奏 and back to the middle loud fast speed, and then quickly change to play the Chinese Drum Set of five small drums for fast speed and the percussion solo. It’s a big challenge to me, the whole song starts with me, and I need to do it right, for tempo, speed, strength and the most import thing - cooperating with my conductor. I had never been so serious before, for the first time in my life I was practicing hard by myself, I want to make my “滾奏” sounds better and better. I followed the CD link to practice and assembled some wood plates at home to practice as my five drums. I learned to cooperate with my conductor tightly, before I was a person easy to lose focus, now I don’t anymore. I also had to pay attention every single second while I was playing. I got many good words after the performances from my FYCO team, my family, and the audience. One important voice in my mind is that I can do it, and I become more confident in myself. I really want to thank to my FYCO conductor putting trust in me for this chance, as well as the teachers’ great guidance and my parent’s big support.

I gained most of my new friendship in FYCO by joining the Taiwan Culture Exchange trip. Along the trip, I had more chances to talk and play with other instrument groups. We watched other professional Chinese Orchestra Concerts together, some songs we even played before. We got the chance to know how other groups translate the same music, I am not an ordinary audience any more, I can notice the different instrument section roles. We also got the chance to play with other orchestras together, I started to appreciate the Chinese music more and more, every single Chinese instrument is unique, and their music is also pretty and unique. We learned and had fun at the same time, it’s a very precious experience for me. I am going to join the FYCO China trip this coming summer, this is also the last trip before I graduate from FYCO, I am very looking forward to it and knowing its important value in my mind.

Now I am playing Dizi in the Orchestra, before I thought it requires a lot of air to blow and it’s hard, really need to thank my Dizi teacher’s great teaching and patience, now I get to play my best. With so many wonderful songs and the techniques of the dizi, I enjoy it more while I am playing it and appreciate the music which is really different from western music. Looking back at the time in FYCO, every Saturday or/and Sunday we went to FYCO, it became a routine for me and my family. Feeling that suddenly after this summer I will be graduating, from FYCO and from my high school, it’s a big page in my life. I learned a lot from music to my personality, it’s a big impact for my growing path, really appreciate my mom bringing me into FYCO and thanks to all FYCO’s members, teachers and parents. I wish FYCO keeps growing and brings the beautiful Chinese music to more people in the world.

I joined FYCO in second grade with my friends Dan Su and Royce Yang. I started out playing the Liuqin in second grade, and later moved on to the Zhongruan, and finally the Daruan. Pretty soon, Dan and Royce became my best friends, and I would look forward to Saturday afternoons. Rather than work, I began to think of FYCO as a place to hang out and enjoy ourselves by playing music. When I think of my best memories from elementary school, it will always be those times in the old theatre building with Dan and Royce, when we’d play music and Pokemon in the rooms during our breaks. Back then, I never knew I would stay in the orchestra for so long. Over the years, people have come and left, including my friend Royce, but I never considered quitting, because FYCO had become an integral part of my life. In more recent memory, one of the best memories I have with FYCO is our trip to Taiwan. Between night markets, long sleepy bus rides, and food poisoning, our two week adventure in Taiwan seemed much longer than it was. In addition, every community service concert gave us a chance to meet people who truly appreciated our music, which made me enjoy them. It’s a real pleasure to perform a solo or a duet in front of a great audience, and being in FYCO has given me that opportunity. I’d like to thank Dan Su for being with me all these years, and Lin Laoshi for watching me grow into all sorts of different instruments. Finally, I’d like to thank everyone in FYCO for being such a great community to be in.

I vaguely recall the first time I came to visit and saw FYCO at practice – that was probably around seven, eight years ago now. My grandfather had come to visit over the summer from China and brought with him his erhu, which had endlessly fascinated me because it sounded so much like a violin yet looked so different. A family friend then encouraged me to explore FYCO to further expand my interest. Although I first went to see more of those “Chinese violins,” I was shocked to see so many other traditional Chinese instruments too. And somehow by the end of that day, I ended up learning how to play the liuqin (Chinese lute) instead.

One of the opportunities FYCO has given me is the ability to connect to others through Chinese culture and its music. I noticed on many of my runs at Lake Elizabeth, the local park in my neighborhood, that there is always a group of elders playing Chinese music on Saturday and Sunday mornings. After watching them practice week after week, I was finally able to converse and impress them with my knowledge of their instruments, and they invited me to join them any time. It is exciting experiences of meeting new people and learning new things that brought me back to FYCO each year.

So many years of watching the FYCO family change has gone by, and I finally find myself leaving for college as well. Whether or not I continue my interest in music activities in the future, I will never forget all those nights I spent with friends playing Chinese operas, regional folk tunes, celebratory songs, and all that makes up the music of FYCO!

Music has always been a part of my life. I’ve been playing the dizi for a total of six years now. I joined FYCO during the beginning of my junior year in 2014. Although I’ve not always been in FYCO for the most of my music career, however, within these two short years, I truly learned a lot as a musician and as a person. Playing music is about listening to each other and working together to produce the best possible melody; FYCO really taught me how to be a team player. I started out not knowing how to play staff on my dizi, but now I can easily translate traditional staff notes into numbers. I’ve made a lot of new friends and learned a great deal about my cultural heritage. FYCO has been a great experience and I am truly glad that I was able to join this big family. Without FYCO, every Saturday night would not be the same again. These two years have been short, but I’ve definitely made memories that I will treasure for a lifetime.

The last 8 years at FYCO has been an incredible journey full of unforgettable memories. From our Taiwan Tour to community service performances, I am grateful to have bettered my understanding of my culture while pursuing my musical interest. I am thankful for the family I have found here at FYCO as we’ve grown together through the highs and lows. Starting from being the little Erhu player hiding in the back of the section, I am glad that I’ve chosen to be part of FYCO until the end of high school as I’ve learned many valuable lessons I would not have learned otherwise. It has been a great run, and I am excited to see the places FYCO will go in the future!

2015

In the last seven years I've been with FYCO, I have made countless memories with my fellow musicians. Since joined in fifth grade, I've transitioned from being illiterate of music notes to joining western and eastern musical styles with my cello. This was done through the continuous support given to me by my teacher and friends. Over the countless pieces of I have played at FYCO, I still retain the same amount of excitement each time we are introduced to new music. Coming every Saturday not only gave me the chance to demonstrate what I had practiced for the past week, but also connect with other musicians. The single most meaningful lesson I learned from being at FYCO is cooperation. I learned to becomes selfless of excelling only at my part but also incorporating it into the whole orchestra. Being at FYCO has also taught me many other valuable lessons in which I often apply in my life outside orchestra. I am proud to have FYCO be the start of my musical career in which is far from its end. I hope others will take the opportunity to experience what I had and send my best wishes to all future FYCO musicians.

Being a member of FYCO has been a great experience for me because I had the opportunity to play a Chinese instrument and learn traditional Chinese songs. When I first joined FYCO, I was introduced to playing the Ruan, which is a Chinese plucked instrument. Learning to play the Ruan was frustrating at first, but with the help of my teacher, I became proficient and enjoyed playing this instrument. The Ruan has a history of over 2000 years and has a rich, mellow tone. FYCO has given me the opportunity to be part of an ensemble with other Chinese instruments. In the process, I have advanced my knowledge and appreciation of Chinese music and have made many friends along the way. I want to thank my family and my teacher for supporting me during my years in FYCO. In the fall, I will be continuing to pursue my education in music.

For as long as I can remember, I have blocked out Saturday nights for FYCO and, naturally, it has been a constant part of my life. Although we've moved from the old building to the theatre building and now back to a newly constructed music building, FYCO has always been a place where I have formed some of my most valued friendships. I will always be grateful to have been able to work with Valerie and William as well as my fellow seniors. They have put up with me for multiple years and I can confidently say that we are able to play together seamlessly because of the countless hours of rehearsal spent together. I would also like to thank my erhu section and the orchestra for being the second family that I know will accept me no matter how much I yell or get annoyed at them. Above all, I am thankful and indebted to 劉老師 for having taught me much more about erhu and life in general than I had expected to learn when I first stepped into FYCO as a seven year old.

Hi everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Dan Su, a member of this orchestra since third grade. I started out playing the liuqin and later moved on to play the zhongruan, although I also have an on-and-off career playing percussion. It’s been really fun performing in this orchestra since the music here is more unique and memorable when compared with western orchestras. Throughout my time here I’ve played the Nutcracker suite in Sacramento, the Red Detachment of Women ballet in Taiwan, and lots of traditional folk songs for various libraries/malls/public places—all of these were exciting and eye-opening. Like all other talents, music requires lots of practice, which I can testify to, is not always fun. But looking back at the fun memories and how far I’ve come, I have to say it was all worth it. I’d like to thank my parents for supporting me with love and gas money, my teacher Emily Lin for watching me grow from a small immature boy to a big immature boy, and Kevin Li for being my zhongruan partner for all these years.

Time flies by in the blink of an eye. It’s been six years since I joined Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra and I am graduating from FYCO and high school this year. Throughout the years as a member in the orchestra, I have learned so much about music and teamwork. I enjoyed working as a team, planning and participating in performances and concerts all over the Bay Area and abroad. One of my favorite experiences in FYCO was representing Santa Clara County for a music festival in Taiwan. By performing in three major cities, we learned to cooperate with local orchestras. While exploring the unique Taiwanese night markets, I enjoyed many delicacies such as winter melon drink as well as specialty snacks such as pineapple cake. The warm welcome from local people and experiences I had led me to meld into Taiwanese culture. I also joined the FYCO Community Service Student Club, which prompted me to participate in many community service performances. As president of the FYCO student club and sectional leader of pipa instrument, I gained many leadership, cooperation and teamwork skills that will definitely benefit me in my future career path. FYCO is one of the best places that I grew up within. I made friends, gained technical skills and teamwork experiences, and learned a lot about the Chinese culture and music. FYCO is like a big family to me and all my FYCO memories are precious and invaluable.

Music has always been an enjoyable part of my life. I started playing cello in 6th grade in middle school, and I joined FYCO as a cellist during high school. FYCO has been a good experience because I was able to continue studying classical music during my lessons, while learning traditional Chinese music with the ensemble each week. I was also able to grow as a music student when I was given the opportunity to transpose my own cello music from numerical notation into traditional staff notes. Overall FYCO has been an educational and enjoyable experience that has allowed me to appreciate music from a different culture.

I first joined FYCO in 2007 and I have been playing Erhu since. I will now be graduating from Homestead High School. Being a part of FYCO with so many different and unique instruments has allowed me to develop a better understanding about my heritage and Chinese culture. Over the years, I have participated in many cultural events with FYCO that has also helped furthered my understanding. I cherish these past few years with FYCO for I have made many great friends and have learned a great deal about music. I also thank my Erhu teacher Su-Chen Liu, because she has helped me improve my Erhu skill. I also thank performing instructor Yuka Takashima, because she trained me well in MC class. Lastly, I wish FYCO will continue to grow.

I remember when I first joined FYCO, being the new guy in the class who was constantly fooling around. I wasn’t the best at my instrument when I started, although I improved significantly over the years. The memories I have with FYCO mainly consist of listening to the orchestra play during the Saturday classes. They’re not very clear given that they happened so long ago, but it probably explains why I can easily remember most of the ensemble pieces we’ve played since the time I joined. My instrument, the suona, was assigned to me, and I’m satisfied with that since it’s introduced to me multiple opportunities for greatness.

The FYCO experience isn’t just about playing music with the orchestra but it’s also an immersion into the Chinese culture and its history with the best people to share the experience with. My greatest memory with FYCO was our travels in Taiwan. Unlike most other orchestra members, I’d never been there before. I’ll never forget the great times we had over there: playing music, sightseeing, and above all, enjoying the entire experience.

FYCO has influenced me with the sense of responsibility from my start in 6th grade since I needed practice, but found it hard to make the time for it. As my adventure in life continues, I plan to preserve my musical capabilities wherever I decide to go. Overall, I will miss the FYCO experience when I graduate.

I’ve been with FYCO for about 12 years now and over these years, I’ve not only grown as a musician, but also as a person. From academic lessons from loving teachers to eating and talking with friends during breaks, FYCO had cultivated a learning environment in which I could learn music to the best of my abilities and learn how to interact with others. When I first joined this orchestra with my dear friend Warren, I would have never imagined that it would be the start to a journey I could never forget. I have been playing the Sheng ever since I joined FYCO back in 2003, under Master Guo. Throughout the years, I have participated in numerous performances, including community services, local, and international. The most memorable experience was our trip to Taiwan, where our orchestra visited various locations throughout Taiwan. In our time there, we played with professionals in a cultural festival and with middle and high school students for their shows. What made it so memorable was the fact that I had some of my closest friends join me in our last big trip together.

sIn FYCO, I learned to appreciate what it means to have such great relationships, whether they be with conductors, parents, teachers, or friends. I know that the lessons I’ve learned here at FYCO have shaped me to who I am today, and will continue to shape and guide me long into the future. And as I graduate from this orchestra, I know that this monumental chapter in my life is coming to an end, while another is ready to begin.

There is nothing quite like FYCO. There is nowhere else in the world where one can learn a Chinese instrument, learn different skills needed for daily life, and be a part of a family of talented musicians all determined to make beautiful music. It may seem like a struggle at first, not knowing what kind of instrument you are holding and having even less of an idea of how to make music out of it, but looking back on it now, those moments of hardship are to be remembered forever. The sense of achievement that comes after you nail your first solo performance right on the head, or when you receive the award for the highest exam score, or even just simply being able to play the most difficult part in the music, cannot be paralleled. Only FYCO can pack all of this into one magnificent experience.

What started as something that I was forced to do every Saturday has transformed into something that I enjoy doing, something that I look forward to every week. Throughout these past nine years, I have learned courage, teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. I am truly blessed to have had this opportunity to join this incredible group of intelligent and gifted individuals. I want to thank everyone who has been a part of FYCO, whether you are a musician, graduate, teacher, or a parent, because you, in some way, shape, or form, have helped build this organization up to what it is today. My experience with FYCO will be cherished in my heart for eternity.

2014

What? I’m graduating already? I’ve already been driven to FYCO and back every Saturday for eight whole years? I’m in a perpetual state of disbelief because I can still recall the day I went to San Jose City College as a 4th grader for the audition, excited to pick up another instrument after the piano. I had always wanted to play the violin, and learning the erhu was the next best thing to me. What I never would have guessed is that along with taking up the erhu, I would learn more from making music together with others who are like family to me now. There’s an easy camaraderie that comes from creating something as a team, and it is a part of FYCO that I will sorely miss. I gained a sense of cultural pride, learned and earned trust in my fellow musicians, and soaked up the sense of satisfaction you feel when you hear a song finally come together after everyone else has worked hard to learn their part. As I gained more experience over the years and more responsibility along the way, I also learned important life skills from my position as one of the erhu section leaders, like patience, cooperation, when to push and when to back down. FYCO has given me a great number of things that I will be forever grateful for. I hope other eager 4th graders in the future will be as pleasantly surprised as I was when I joined.

I want to thank my parents for giving me this unforgettable experience and for driving my brother and me there and back every single Saturday (we’ve had perfect attendance for eight years straight), Liu-laoshi, my absolutely wonderful and ever-patient erhu teacher, and Gordon Lee, mastermind composer and conductor, for allowing me to join this family.

At a library community service performance was where I first saw my partner – elegant, exotic, and enchanting. I had never seen anything like it before and immediately knew that was who I wanted to work with for the next seven years. This partner is my pipa. Like all partnerships, we had our times of glory as well as times when we hit rough patches. Despite my broken hand sophomore year, I wanted to come to rehearsals. It was then that I noticed the massive amount of teamwork and dedication that FYCO members had. FYCO taught me about traditional Chinese music, but more importantly helped shape me into the person I am today. I learned how to contribute to a team and even had the honor of teaching musicians from the Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood groups who will be the future of FYCO. I have proudly dedicated myself to practicing every weekend with fellow musicians and friends, but rehearsals are much more than just that – it’s a time when we bond. Inevitably, rehearsals may become seemingly repetitive, but we manage to have fun in our own way – playing our “How Many Instruments Do You Know” and “Huangmei Capriccio” remixed version, dodging 劉老師’s flying baton, and even marveling at the pure determination of our wind instrument players who are sometimes clearly on the verge of passing out during rehearsal.

I am very thankful to 謝老師, 張老師, 劉老師, and many others who have given me countless opportunities. The memories I have made in FYCO will be with me forever and I hope the memories I leave will be positive as well. I will truly miss this group and nothing will replace my experiences in FYCO. Thank you all for everything.

To get a sense of the unique experience that FYCO can offer, we will start with some basic numbers: there are about 20,000 youth orchestras in the United States. Of those 20,000 youth orchestras, about 1,000 are located in California. Of those 1,000 youth orchestras that are located in California, fewer than 10 offer classes on traditional Chinese instruments. And of those 10 orchestras, only one provides excellent musical education taught by world-class professionals combined with the comfort of a family-like community—FYCO.

I joined FYCO in 2004, where I learned to play my first instrument, the sheng, under Master Guo. Over the course of nine years, I have participated in numerous community service performances, concerts, and trips. My most memorable experience was the recent 2013 Taiwan Tour, in which our orchestra visited various parts of Taiwan such as Hsinchu, Tainan, and Taipei to perform with local orchestras, to learn about the Chinese culture, and to have fun. Part of this trip that made it so memorable was the variety of musical experiences and activities—as we were traveling to different parts of Taiwan, we spectated concerts performed by professional orchestras as well as middle school and high school orchestras. One performance in particular that stood out to me took place during the 2013 Hsinchu Chinese Music Festival, in which the Suona players played with so much vigor and energy that it cured me of my jet lag. On the social aspect, being part of the FYCO community provided me a sense of content and belongingness. I recall those days in Taiwan when we went shopping at Taipei 101, wandered around a night market and somehow ended up in a bowling alley, went hiking in the rain with flip flops, and ate instant ramen at 2 in the morning (such nostalgia). Even on a personal level, my FYCO friends are by-far my closest friends and I'm very fortunate to have met some of the coolest people at FYCO. Ultimately, these experiences and memories with my FYCO friends will truly last a lifetime.

Furthermore, only a few places, such as FYCO, can offer this rare experience: FYCO has provided me an unrivaled musical experience that is characterized by passionate instructors, dedicated parents, and a caring student body that makes you feel at home.

I have been with FYCO for at least ten years officially, and perhaps even 12 years unofficially. To be quite frank, FYCO has been not only a community but also a family. Sacrificing my time to learn the Dizi has not only proved to be fun and interesting; it has helped bridge a gap to another world. Through FYCO I connected with my cultural heritage from China in 2004 and Taiwan in 2013. These visits opened my eyes to my background and to a whole different side of the music world where I delved into a world of masters.

FYCO became a family to me due to my connections with several generations of FYCO members; each graduate musician came and passed while my musicianship grew. Before long FYCO wasn’t a class anymore, it became something to look forward to, and Dizi became a way to express myself rather than just another tool to make noise.

Overall FYCO is a group I can accredit much of my own values to, some of the most important ones include: Musicianship, Leadership, Courage, and Teamwork. While Musicianship is very particular, the latter three values are crucial for working towards a better society and business leading. Perfect for my planned major in Business Management.

The first time I walked into a FYCO rehearsal, I had no idea what was happening. I looked around the ensemble room only to find many strange looking instruments and intimidating older teenagers. I had no idea how to make music out of four skinny, metal strings or read the funny looking numbers that I later learned was Chinese music staff. That was 9 years ago; now FYCO is a place where I feel completely comfortable. I used to groan and grumble every Saturday evening when I would be forced to attend rehearsals, but now the hours fly by as I learn to appreciate them more and more. The hours of practice have taught me patience, the years gone by have taught me perseverance, and living with the same group of people for three weeks in a foreign country has taught me the meaning of friendship and loyalty. I value my fellow FYCO members as if they were my family, and I’ll definitely miss this community of musicians working together to create beautiful harmonies. Even though I will be leaving for college soon, I know I’ll never forget my experiences here. I never could have completed this extensive journey alone, and I’d like to thank everyone who supported me and encouraged me along the way, whether it be through giving me rides to San Jose City College, convincing me to attend performances, meticulously planning events and concerts, teaching me, or even just having a simple conversation with me throughout my time here; separately, we are one line of music, but together we are a song.

When I first joined FYCO 8 years ago, I was mostly tentative, unsure of how much I would like the unfamiliar instrument I was learning to play and the new community I would be joining. FYCO, however, warmly welcomed me into the family, and I quickly began to look forward to the weekly sessions. All these years later, I am still deeply in love with the music that we make, and will definitely remember the many Saturdays that I spent in the FYCO community.

Through FYCO, I have developed a better understanding and appreciation of music, especially Chinese orchestra music, and learned to be more perceptive of elements of music such as pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. I know that my work ethic has also been strengthened by FYCO — observing other musicians and teachers' perseverance to perfect their music has made me even more determined to not only play music to the best of my abilities, but to also improve in all other areas outside of FYCO. I have found a family of musicians and music lovers alike that constantly encourage each other to embrace and improve both their creative and technical sides, to aspire to make exceptional music. I love feeling the emotions that stream through every song — the feeling of connection to the rest of the orchestra is indescribable. Though I am graduating this June, I am grateful and honored to have had the opportunity to learn from and perform with such an amazing group of musicians.

Eight years ago, I was just a regular kid with a lot of free time. I was introduced to FYCO and since then my life has changed dramatically. FYCO teaches more than just musical skills. I have experienced far more than what I expected, such as leadership and especially deep friendships.

I only expected to gain some basic music theory. Boy, I couldn't have been more wrong. My skills on the Sheng couldn't be possible without the devout dedication of Wanpeng GUO, my wonderful Sheng instructor. He has never failed to keep me going, no matter how difficult the piece. His philosophy was simple: have fun. Although I could never compete with the other top Sheng players, I never put my Sheng down if I could help it. The Sheng is too fun, just from its versatility and sheer awesomeness. Seriously, what other common wind instrument can play chords on a whim? GUO Laoshi, thank you for teaching me these long eight years.

When FYCO traveled to Taiwan over the summer in 2013, I was exposed to much more than I expected. As one of the most 'veteran' members on the trip, I had to keep the other students in check. That was an eye opening experience. My respect for other leaders definitely rose after that trip! Ultimately, that trip did more than just rejuvenate my respect for others. A month long trip with many other students my age does some interesting things.

Some of my best friendships have originated from FYCO. When times turn rough, I know I can turn to my fellow classmates. Life will not run smoothly for anybody. Friends can help mediate these issues. I may not be pursuing a career in music, but FYCO has left a great impact on my life. Don't ever leave programs without looking for a hidden experience. That experience may change your life.

Hi! I'm Kelly. I have been at FYCO for the past eight years. I can still remember the day I first auditioned to be in FYCO. I saw the Guzheng on many Youtube videos and I thought it was the most beautiful Chinese instrument of them all. When Gordon asked what instrument I was interested in learning, I completely forgot the name of the instrument. He kindly suggested the Pipa and I agreed because I wasn't sure what that was. I'm glad that I forgot the word "Guzheng" because I wouldn't trade my Pipa for any other instrument in the world. I want to thank all the wonderful parents for putting in so much time into giving us the opportunity to perform and learn. I want to thank all the teachers for patiently working with all of us even though we do get loud. FYCO has helped me develop my leadership skills as well as a greater appreciation for Chinese music. Because of FYCO, I was able to escape the social bubble that living in a suburban area creates. I met some of the most talented and intellectual people at FYCO. Because FYCO is an environment where we can truly socialize with people that have a common love for music, we are able to make connections that can better prepare us for the future. I plan to bring my Pipa with me to college and hopefully share it with my floormates. This fall, I will be studying Biological Sciences with an aspiration to enter medical school. Fluorine, Uranium, Carbon, Potassium, Thorium, Iodine, Silicon, Molybdenum, Uranium, Thalium, Astatine, Erbium. Bye FYCO!

I have been part of the FYCO family since I was seven years old. I really want to thank the friends and teachers that have helped me and accompanied me for the past eleven years. I have enjoyed spending time at FYCO whether performing at the state capitol or a Buddhist temple, sharing our music with the world. I play the yangqin, and part of the job of a yangqin player is to act as a substitute conductor during small community service performances. At first just the thought of it would make me nervous and cause my sticks to tremble before I gave the signal to start, but this responsibility gradually helped me move away from the shy girl I used to be as I gained the courage and confidence to lead. Chinese orchestral pieces have many time signature shifts and sharp tempo changes. This calls for all musicians to listen to each other and be ready to adjust within a split second. Through years of orchestra rehearsal, I have learned to be more sensitive with my ears both inside and outside of orchestra, attuned to the tiny shifts and tempo changes of everyday conversation. In the fall I will be attending Stanford University, and I hope to keep using my careful ear to stay curious about others and their world views.

FYCO is a bit strange. It's shown me a side of music that I've yet to see elsewhere. From the bumbling newbies to the practiced veterans, FYCO embodies a type of purity about music. The squabble for seating and parts that's found in other music groups is hardly present within FYCO. Most students are content to simply pick up their instrument and give whatever piece they receive their best shot. Perhaps this is why I enjoy performing with FYCO so much. I can blast out music on my instrument, good or bad, to my heart's content and not worry about anyone getting overly annoyed (maybe they do, and I just don't notice). Because of this, I don't really think of music as a performing art. Rather, it comes to me as a form of meditation. The melodies that I perform are for my entertainment only, and if anyone else cares to listen, let them. Through FYCO, music has become more than just a skill. It has become a mindset, a way of thought. It has helped me organize my mind in ways I could have never done without it and has given me another love in life. Also, massive thanks to Wanpeng Guo for being an amazing teacher throughout all these years.

2013

Hello, I’m Christina. I play the dizi and suona! (Go look it up if you don’t know what they are). First and foremost, I wish to thank my parents with all my heart for introducing me to FYCO eleven years ago and for giving me all their encouragement throughout all ups and downs, because FYCO truly has been the best part of these past 11 years. Kudos to my dad, for his unwavering support and for bringing me to and from FYCO rehearsals since I was seven!

I also thank Gordon (謝老師), Mark 老師, Hou 老師, and Yu 老師! Thank you 謝老師 for giving me endless opportunities to develop leadership skills as well as advice on how to become a stronger and better person. Thank you Mark, Hou, and Yu for always being patient and helping me improve to play my best! Most importantly, I hope all FYCO members realize at some point during their time here that FYCO is a place to challenge yourself, to make mistakes and grow. Because after you’ve been here long enough (me), you’ll notice that at FYCO, mistakes aren’t mistakes, but a chance to learn.

We all know that when you put yourself out there, there will always be a result, no matter good or bad. So believe that it will become a memory you can learn from. Remember that if you don’t at least try, you’ll never know what could have happened. At FYCO, if you try diligently, I can guarantee that you’ll be given an opportunity to shine.Even if it’s hard to believe, I’ve considered leaving FYCO right from the time I joined, and many more times during my career here. I still don’t know how or why I always decided not to. However, I do know, as I’m sure we all do, that I’ve received love and encouragement from my parents, learned awesome skills from my teachers, and expanded my mind through eye-opening opportunities from Gordon. And that all the other inspiring individual stories from you guys make FYCO worthwhile.So lastly, I want to thank FYCO and all its members and parents for being here with me these 11 years.

Hi I’m Grace Lin, for the past seven years, I have devoted almost every Saturday of my life to Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra(FYCO), playing the Yangqin. Although it sounds like a heavy commitment, the feeling I have around practicing and attending meetings is not. Despite having to skip many school activities such as dances and hangouts because of practice, it has never annoyed me. My friends would often ask me "Why can't you just skip orchestra?" But for me, it's not because I can't skip, it’s that I don’t want to skip my time at FYCO. Through my many years with FYCO, I have been enriched in multiple ways, musically and otherwise. I have learned the meaning of hard work, socialize with a large group of people, and to step out of my comfort zone to perform multiple solo pieces. Through the lessons, encouragements, and opportunities given from FYCO, one particular challenge I took on was to conduct the orchestra for community service events. I am now able to stand up as a leader when it’s needed and to give my best effort regardless of how prepared I am. Over the years, I have found myself practicing my instrument every chance I have had, as much for the community of people as the orchestra itself. As a result of my involvement with FYCO, I am now able to express myself in multitude of ways and not just through music. I’ve expanded my knowledge of Chinese history through the songs we play and the stories told from our conductor, Gordon Lee. Chinese orchestra is an important part of who I am and I will continue to cherish my cultural roots and FYCO in the next steps of my life at Purdue University.