Celebrating 125 Years of the Brothers of Saint Gabriel

Chinese Songs, Thai Voices, One Winning Harmony at AU

Big voices, bright smiles and plenty of star power! Thirty-eight young singers from schools and universities across Thailand took center stage at the Chinese Song Contest Finals, proving that language learning can be as exciting as a live performance.

Hosted by the Confucius Institute at Assumption University (CIAU) at Assumption College, Bang Rak, the competition gave young performers their moment in the spotlight, complete with colorful costumes, Chinese melodies and the excitement of performing before an audience.

From traditional Chinese favorites to contemporary pop songs, contestants impressed with their pronunciation, vocal skills and stage presence. Some brought elegance and emotion to their performances, while others delivered youthful energy and personality. Each had a chance to shine.

Four Champions, 38 Young Stars

The competition welcomed students in four categories: Primary School, Junior High School, Senior High School and University.

After preliminary selections, 38 finalists earned their places on stage, demonstrating not only their singing abilities but also the dedication required to perform in another language.

Four outstanding performers claimed first prizes:

  • Primary School: Ms. Manasanan Poynok
  • Junior High School: Mr. Kantanat Suphasanrangsan
  • Senior High School: Ms. Thitaree Labkum
  • University: Ms. Suratsavadee Deenok

While four singers took home top honors, every finalist had reason to celebrate. Performing in Chinese before a live audience required preparation, courage and confidence, achievements that extended well beyond the competition results.

Learning Chinese, One Song at a Time

Who says language learning has to stay in the classroom?

For these young performers, music offered a chance to bring Chinese vocabulary, pronunciation and cultural understanding to life.

The songs explored family, friendship, personal growth and Chinese traditions, giving contestants opportunities to connect with the meaning behind the words they sang.

Their performances also demonstrated an important lesson: language learning is not simply about getting the pronunciation right. It is about finding the confidence to communicate and connect with others.

For students who may one day pursue international education, careers or cultural exchanges, that confidence can be just as valuable as a prize.

A Stage for Talent and Friendship

The event was held under the theme “One Melody Unites China and Thailand, Elegant Rhythms Grace Siam,” bringing together young Chinese-language learners from educational institutions across Thailand.

Dr. Kitikorn Dowpiset, Vice President for Moral Development Education at Assumption University, welcomed the contestants and encouraged continued educational and cultural exchanges between Thailand and China.

The occasion also brought together university representatives, educators and language specialists who shared a commitment to supporting young learners.

A panel of five judges evaluated the finalists on Chinese pronunciation, singing proficiency, stage presence and song selection. Their assessments recognized both musical ability and the effort required to communicate effectively through Chinese-language performances.

A Special Performance for a Special Anniversary

The contest added a youthful musical celebration to the 125th anniversary of the educational mission of the Brothers of Saint Gabriel in Thailand.

For more than a century, Saint Gabriel educational institutions have encouraged young people to develop their abilities through learning, creativity and personal growth.

The Chinese Song Contest reflected that spirit by providing a platform where students could explore their talents, build friendships and discover what they could achieve beyond the classroom.

The Future Sounds Bright!

For the Confucius Institute at Assumption University, the competition was about more than finding the best singers. It was about encouraging young people to embrace language learning, appreciate cultural differences and believe in their own abilities.

The institute will continue creating opportunities for students to develop their Chinese-language skills through educational and cultural activities.

And for the 38 finalists who stepped into the spotlight, the applause may have faded, but the confidence, friendships and memories will last much longer.

Congratulations to all the young performers. The stage was yours, and you made it count!

WRITER: CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AT ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY

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