2025 Taizhou University Chinese Classics Recitation event titled “Elegant Language Inherits Civilization, Classics Moisten Life” was held on September 27 at the Linhai Campus Auditorium. Vice President and Party Committee Member Li Jianjun, Party Committee Member and Director of the Publicity Department Cai Haijiang, heads of relevant functional departments, and leaders, teachers, and students from secondary schools and colleges participated in this event.
This recitation event was hosted by the University Academic Affairs Office and organized by the School of Humanities and the Zhejiang Language and Character Promotion Base at TU. It was co-organized by Jin Niya Studio, the Taizhou University Fengya Recitation Club, the Yuzhilin Club of Taizhou University Affiliated Middle School, and the Zheshang Primary School Guangwen Recitation Club.
The event aimed to build a high-quality platform for language and cultural exchange, explore the cultural depth and contemporary value of classic texts, and guide participants to appreciate the rhythmic beauty and intellectual power of language.
In his opening address, Li Jianjun emphasized that Taizhou University views the promotion of Putonghua as a vital part of its educational mission. He expressed his hope that this recitation would inspire teachers and students to appreciate the charm of Chinese classics, carry forward cultural traditions, and promote the spirit of the times.
Vice President Li Jianjun delivering a speech
The recitation was divided into two chapters: “Eternal Classics” and “Everlasting Spirit.” The performers used their voices and emotions to breathe new life into timeless texts.
The first chapter, “Eternal Classics,” featured award-winning contestants from the provincial Chinese Classics Recitation Competition. Their performances spanned a wide range, from the vast philosophy of Zhuangzi · Autumn Waters to the poignant emotions of Congratulations to the Groom. Students Li Yantong and Yang Wei then painted an ethereal soundscape with Spring River Flower Moon Night, while Teacher Li Jianbing’s powerful rendition of Dreaming of Roaming the Mount Skyland: A Leave-taking Song vividly captured the transcendent spirit of poet Li Bai.
Further performances by students Chen Nuo and Zhang Chenhui conveyed heroic ambition through classical verses. The chapter concluded with a collaborative piece, The Mission of the Morning Bell, performed by Zhang Linda and Teacher Ying Haoyu, whose firm and emotional voices demonstrated an educator’s dedication to passing on civilization.
Highlights of the event
During the interlude, the Zheshang Primary School Guangwen Recitation Club presented a short situational play, Where Has the Time Gone? With sincere and humorous performances, they portrayed relatable life details that quickly resonated with the audience.
The second chapter, “Everlasting Spirit,” opened with an excerpt from Tales of Hulan River, performed by the Yuzhilin Club, which warmly depicted northern Chinese customs and human emotions. A rendition of The Purple Vine Waterfall then invited the audience to reflect on the vitality of life. Alumni Li Zhiyun and Wang Qiqian performed My South and North, using expressive voices to outline the vast and diverse landscapes of the motherland. The Yuzhilin Club returned to the stage with The Spirit of Red Crag, their resounding voices paying tribute to the firm belief of revolutionary martyrs.
A highlight of the evening was the collaborative recitation of Long Live Youth by Chinese students and international student Bilal, transcending language and culture to celebrate the ideals and passion of youth. Following a powerful recitation of With My Impaired Hand I Palpate, the performance reached its climax with The Mountains and Rivers Will Not Forget by Teacher Li Xin and students. Coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, this piece paid a powerful tribute to history, expressing profound remembrance for heroes and a deep cherishment of peace.
Highlights of the event
Group photo
This recitation event successfully enhanced our university community’s awareness and proficiency in using the national common language. It injected vibrant youthful energy into the mission of strengthening national unity and cultural confidence. May all teachers and students continue to advance on this path, promoting Putonghua and inheriting China’s excellent cultural traditions to compose brilliant new chapters for the future.
