Chinese artist Guo Mei (R) teaches a student to play pipa in Qormi, Malta, on March 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

A groundbreaking initiative to introduce Chinese music to Maltese youth, featuring lessons of pipa, a traditional Chinese pear-shaped stringed instrument, was launched on Monday at St Ignatius College Handaq Middle School in Malta.

The program, organized in collaboration with the China Cultural Center in Malta, marks the first time a Maltese school has offered students the opportunity to learn the pipa.

Young Chinese artist Guo Mei has been appointed as the instructor for the lessons. More than 20 students have voluntarily enrolled in the inaugural group, showcasing their enthusiasm for exploring a new cultural experience.

"Our school has always been committed to embracing diversity and promoting cultural appreciation," said Maria Montebello, head of the school, at the launch ceremony. "This initiative is another milestone in our journey of international collaboration."

"We are happy to see this collaboration and the sharing of culture, music, and traditions between Malta and China," Montebello told Xinhua, expressing her excitement about the cultural exchange while voicing confidence that more students will be inspired to learn the pipa.

Student Serena Galazzo shared her motivation for joining the program, saying, "I am interested in Chinese culture and musical instruments. Learning the pipa is exciting for me." Despite acknowledging the challenges of learning a new instrument, she is determined to continue her studies.

Chinese artist Guo Mei (L) teaches a student to play pipa in Qormi, Malta, on March 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Student Mariah Mizzi echoed her enthusiasm, saying, "The pipa is a beautiful instrument, and I love it." Having previously listened to pipa music, she was inspired to take up the instrument. She added that she will soon be traveling to China with her family, an experience she anticipates will deepen her understanding of Chinese culture and music.

The pipa learning program in Malta is part of the "Chinese Music Linking the Future" initiative, launched jointly by the Network of International Culturalink Entities and China cultural centers overseas.