Connection Through Notes: Bridging Cultures Through Music at UNC Charlotte

Connection through Notes Program bridges cultural and geographical differences through participation in a traditional choral ensemble 

The Office of Intercultural and Educational Experiences, in collaboration with the UNC Charlotte’s Women’s Choir, led by Professor Ginger Wyrick, recently concluded its fifth cohort of the highly successful #Music! Connection through Notes program. The fruit of a long-standing partnership with Tohoku University, this program brings together students from both institutions through the shared love of music. Over the course of six weeks, 64 UNC Charlotte students and 23 Tohoku University students interacted virtually and in person through Zoom pre-residency meetings, online discussion boards, and in-person rehearsals, culminating in a joint performance with songs in English and Japanese. 

For the first time, the program overlapped with UNC Charlotte’s International Festival, and much to the excitement of those in attendance, the students also performed their repertoire at the Festival. The Tohoku University students also performed a dance, participated in the Parade of Nations, and assisted UNC Charlotte’s Nihon Club with their cultural display. 

The two-week in-person residency portion also provides the Tohoku University students with ample opportunities to interact with UNC Charlotte students and Charlotte community members. Highlights from this year included a social and square dancing event with the choral students, a UNC Charlotte football game, and, for the first time ever, an impactful weekend homestay experience. 

The program’s transformative power is best expressed through the words of a Tohoku University student and UNC Charlotte student:

“I had a truly enriching experience every day during my study abroad, thanks to the pre-program training and the chance to interact online and with local students. In just a short time, I built confidence in speaking and using English, and this experience has become a huge motivation for me to continue learning.”  

“It’s not just an exchange, it’s a community that we all work to create together. Because of that effort, we’ve formed relationships that go beyond the classroom. I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from you [Tohoku University students], laugh with you, and grow together. These are the moments that make our time at UNC Charlotte so special, and I know the memories we’ve made here will stay with us long after this program ends.”