Middletown High School’s guest Chinese exchange students cumulated their visit on Jan. 31 by showcasing their musical talents for all of Frederick.

The seven students performed at the annual Asian New Year Celebration Kick-off at Francis Scott Key Mall. They were joined by a great variety of other acts, including calligraphy, martial arts, music, and dancing performances.

The mall itself was festively donned in vibrant reds and golds; booths surrounded the stage set up in the center of the mall, allowing crowds of people to learn and enjoy even in between acts. Even the remote areas of the center were affected by the festivities, regularly greeted by the antics of a traditional Chinese New Year dragon.

MHS students were among the audience, many of whom had personally welcomed and helped the exchange students the few days before.

“I think it went pretty well,” said MHS senior Lucas “They put a lot of work into it.”

Those who attended it had the privilege of watching the Chinese students perform music with traditional pipas (also known as Chinese lutes).

MHS junior Erin Rooney’s favorite part of the event was “the different cultural instruments…[like the] traditional Chinese instruments.”

The celebration continues at Tuscarora High School on Feb. 14, starting at 6:30.

Although the Chinese students are unable to participate in the festive continuation, they certainly made an impact; their two-day integration into MHS culture provided opportunities for students to broaden their experiences and forge new friendships.