Our Story
How CCMDA has grown from a small community group into Calgary's leading traditional Chinese music organization since 1998.
OUR JOURNEY
Over Two Decades of Music and Community
1998
Fundraising for the Community
Organized fundraising concerts for organizations including: The Calgary Chinese Elderly Citizens' Association Tom Baker Cancer Centre Wing Kei Care Centre Alberta Children's Hospital
Since 1999
"Music and Bamboo" Radio Program
Since August 1999, Society President Frank Yuen (阮振雄) has hosted the weekly Chinese music radio program "Music and Bamboo" (管弦絲竹) on Calgary Chinese Radio FM94.7, becoming one of the station's longest-running programs.
2000–2001
University of Calgary Lectures
Invited by the University of Calgary Music Department to present two lectures introducing Chinese musical instruments.
January 2001
Kodály Association Demonstration
Invited by the Alberta Kodály Association and the Kodály Society of Canada to demonstrate Chinese instruments and their characteristics.
Since 2004
Accompaniment for Vocal Competitions
Provided Chinese orchestra accompaniment for Chinese vocalists competing in music competitions.
April 23, 2006
Chinese Musical Instrument Exhibition Centre
Opened a permanent Chinese Musical Instrument Exhibition Centre. The Chinese Consulate donated four traditional Chinese instruments to the exhibition, allowing more people to learn about the history and development of Chinese music.
2006-Present
Annual Concert at the Rozsa Centre
The organization launched its annual concert at the Rozsa Centre, establishing a signature event that showcased musical excellence, celebrated community, and became a cherished tradition for performers and audiences alike.
2008
University of Lethbridge Guest Lectures
President Frank Yuen and Vice President Paula Pang (彭梁學馨) were invited by the University of Lethbridge as guest lecturers to introduce Chinese music and instruments.
October 16–17, 2009
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra Performance
Invited by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra to perform at Jack Singer Concert Hall, featuring The Waterfall (瀑布) with erhu and guzheng.
2011
Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival
Successfully advocated for the addition of Chinese instrumental music to the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festival, marking the first time in the festival's 90-year history that Chinese instruments were included. The society has continued organizing this category ever since.
2014
First Chinese Piano Music Competition
Organized the first Chinese Piano Music Competition, supported by 17 Calgary piano teachers with more than 80 participants. This was Calgary's first competition dedicated entirely to Chinese piano repertoire.
2015–2016
Concerto Collaborations with the CPO
Collaborated with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra to organize concerto performances including: Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto Yellow River Piano Concerto
2015–2024
North America Chinese Music Grading Examination
Hosted the North America Chinese Music Grading Examination for the Calgary region.
Sep–Oct 2016
Illuminasia Lantern & Garden Festival
Invited by the Calgary Zoo to perform weekly during Illuminasia Lantern & Garden Festival, presenting multicultural performances over a six-week period.
October 2, 2016
A Night of Famous Chinese Music
Organized "A Night of Famous Chinese Music" at Boris Roubakine Hall, featuring renowned Chinese musicians.
June 30, 2017
Canada 150 Celebration
Performed at Calgary's celebration of Canada's 150th Anniversary, including selections from the Butterfly Lovers Concerto.
August 22, 2017
5th International Guzheng Competition
Seven society representatives competed in the 5th International Guzheng Competition in Hong Kong, winning: 2 Silver Awards 5 Bronze Awards
May 7, 2018
Calgary Zoo Panda Exhibit Opening
Invited to perform a 45-minute Chinese music concert for the opening of the Calgary Zoo Panda exhibit.
September 13, 2018
Chautauqua Arts Festival, Fernie BC
Invited to perform a 65-minute Chinese music concert at Fernie, BC's Chautauqua Arts Festival.
October 13, 2018
20th Anniversary Concert
Celebrated the society's 20th Anniversary with a concert at the Rozsa Centre, University of Calgary.
October 21, 2018
Youth Instrumental Music Competition
Organized a Youth Chinese & Western Instrumental Music Competition at Jack Singer Rehearsal Hall.
2018-Present
Chinese Youth Music (Guzheng & Piano) Competition and Winners Concert
Launched the Chinese Youth Music (Guzheng & Piano) Competition and Winners Concert to celebrate excellence in both guzheng and piano performance. The annual competition has been held annually since 2018, providing a platform to showcase talent, encourage artistic growth, and promote Chinese musical traditions.
Since October 2025
CCOM Overseas Grading Examination
Hosting the Central Conservatory of Overseas Music Grading Examination in the Calgary region.
From our first students to our thriving community today, CCMDA remains committed to sharing the beauty of Chinese music with future generations.
Our Mission
To foster appreciation and understanding of traditional Chinese music by providing high-quality education, creating performance opportunities, and engaging the community.
Our Vision
A vibrant community where Chinese music thrives, inspires, and connects generations.
Our Values
- · Respect for tradition
- · Excellence in education
- · Community and collaboration
- · Cultural understanding
- · Innovation and growth
Be Part of Our Story
Whether you're a student, performer, or supporter, there's a place for you in our community.