Inspirational masterclass with Mary-Jess about how learning Mandarin Chinese can change your life:

We all know that learning a language is a good thing, it’s great for the heath of your brain, not to mention looking great on your CV, but why else should you take the time to learn a language, and why Mandarin Chinese in particular? Mary-Jess often speaks to Mandarin Chinese learners of all ages, to share with them her story and journey with Mandarin Chinese and telling them about the incredible opportunities it’s given her throughout her career, from winning the Chinese Version of the X Factor, to being invited to Downing Street and becoming a representative of UK music in 144 counties, including China.

See the testimonials below to see why Mary-Jess should come and speak to your students, and fill out the form here using the subject line ‘Masterclass’. We look forward to hearing from you!

Testimonials:

“Mary-Jess was an inspirational singer. We had her for a workshop and a concert in school and the students have been talking about the experience for days and weeks after the event. In the workshop, Mary-Jess shared her story of how “being brave” and “take opportunities” played a part in her life-changing experience. She was very engaging and attentive - she was indeed a natural teacher. Her concert was breath-taking, too. We could tell that she had chosen the songs with great consideration, linked well with the theme of the day. Her voice was amazing. Everyone clearly enjoyed it very much. I had pupils asking if we could invite Mary-Jess to school again. I’ve also overheard pupils talking about what dream they should pursue with Mandarin. Mary-Jess clearly inspired these young-minds. I highly recommend her.” Miss Jessica Yang, Mayfield Grammar School, UK.

“Highly recommended! Mary-Jess has an incredible story to tell and our students and staff have been enthralled each time that she has visited The Castle School to speak. She is clearly not only a hugely talented musician but also an excellent public speaker. Her presentations are motivating as well as challenging, and have been pitched at just the right level; students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities have been highly engaged and fascinated by what she has to say. We have certainly seen an increased desire to learn Mandarin in our students following her presentations and all students have been able to reflect on key messages of being resilient, dreaming big, taking every opportunity and never giving up.” Mr Simon Floyd, Castle School, Taunton, UK.

“It has been an absolute delight to welcome you as a special guest to speak in our assembly at Devonport High School for Girls today. What a truly awe-inspiring and heart-warming story you have to tell about how you have sought to embrace all opportunities that have come your way in order to pursue your dreams. Particularly impressive and refreshing was the confidence with which you explained your background and about the setbacks you faced before you could embark on your desired career path. The positivity, determination and resilience you maintained, in order to overcome the early challenges, show special qualities which are extremely valuable to all young people today and without doubt, as clearly evidenced by some comments of the students below, you have been an exceptional inspiration to the students at our school, for which I am extremely grateful.” Ms Denise Broadbent, Head of Languages, Devonport High School for Girls.

Year 7 Students:

“Your assembly was very inspirational and I enjoyed hearing how you went from desperately trying to get to the top of learning languages to winning the Chinese X-Factor.”

“I loved your speech and I think it was really meaningful. You inspired me to be confident and to take any opportunity!”

“It was very inspiring; it taught me not to be scared to put myself out there!”

Year 11 Students:

“It gave a different perspective on the importance of learning languages and the opportunities it can bring.”

“I thought she was really inspirational, especially because it was clear how hard she worked.”

“Incredible! Mary-Jess was a really good speaker and has a wonderful story. The mottoes she follows and passes on are inspirational!”

“On Thursday 13 February we were hugely fortunate to welcome Mary-Jess to Ivybridge Community College, who lead an inspirational talk for our Year 8 Students. Mary-Jess gave an intriguing account of her journey from humble beginnings in Gloucester to becoming an international classical singing sensation and how her mottos of ‘always having more than one string to your bow’ and ‘seizing every opportunity’ were her foundations for success. Our students were fascinated by Mary-Jess, her story and her extremely impressive ability to speak a very different language. Mary-Jess delivered a vitally important message to our students about making the most of every chance you are given as well as the breadth of opportunities learning a language can bring you, opportunities you can’t even imagine. Thank you Mary-Jess and look forward to having you back soon.” Jenni Bindon, Head of Languages, Ivybridge Community College.

Singing and performing masterclass with Mary-Jess and Joanna Forest:

For the first time, you have the opportunity to learn first hand the tricks and the trade of being an internationally acclaimed musician from two of the world’s most exciting sopranos and recording artists. Mary-Jess (winner of the Chinese ‘X Factor’ and Official Downton Abbey Songstress) and Joanna Forest (the first independent artist to achieve UK Classical Number 1 with a debut album) come together to work with you in a solo, choral or group capacity to share all their knowledge of singing and of the industry.

A little note from Joanna and Mary-Jess:

Having worked professionally in the industry for a combined total of 20 years, we know first hand how much music can help with self-esteem and confidence issues, and how the enjoyment of and participation in music can benefit so many other areas of ones life. We love encouraging young people to pursue their love of music, not only by running masterclasses, but also by inviting young musicians on tour with us and to record with us on numerous occasions. We just love to see their passion and talent shine through as they gain in confidence.

We looking forward to working with you and to seeing your passion and talent shine through!

Love,

Mary-Jess and Joanna xx

Download the information pack here:

Register your interest here using the subject ‘masterclasses’.