🎵 Free Musical Instrument Experience - July 12th, 2026

By Alice Zhang

What a fantastic day! On July 12, our second annual instrument demonstration and hands‑on event, led and hosted by two amazing youth leaders – Alice Zhang and Helen Liu – took place at the Ridgedale Library in Minnetonka. Organized by PLEAS (Minnesota), the event drew over 50 kids and their families from across the Twin Cities metro area!

We kicked off with a quick introduction to PLEAS, followed by an inspiring instrument showcase. Five PLEAS Board members and two special guest musicians each performed and explained their instrument – giving everyone a taste of the variety and beauty of different sounds.

Then came the absolute highlight – the hands‑on experience! Kids eagerly lined up at their favorite instruments and received one‑on‑one “mini‑masterclasses” from our young musicians and Huang Laoshi. The smiles on their faces said it all – many children touched, held, or played an instrument for the very first time!

To wrap up, we held a fun prize‑winning guessing game. The kids formed teams, turned away from the performers, and had to identify the instrument just by listening to a random short piece. It was a bit tricky for our elementary‑aged friends – especially with traditional Chinese instruments – but after a few rounds of concentrated listening, they not only got it right but also walked away with a deeper appreciation for each instrument, plus plenty of prizes and happy hearts!

Huge thanks to Alice, Helen, all the musicians, and every family who joined us. Can’t wait to see you again next year!