.png)
2943 Last Friday afternoon, Paul Collins (founding member of
legendary 1970s rock groups The Nerves and The Beat and widely
considered “godfather” of the Power Pop genre) paid a visit
to the students of Shanghai Experimental School during he and
his band’s debut tour of mainland China.An assembly was held
during the last period of the day where faculty, staff, and
students gathered in the auditorium to watch a performance
provided by Paul and his group. Paul enthusiastically greeted
the school and expressed he and his group’s excitement with
their first visit and thanks for the warm welcome. He then
with the rest of the group acoustically performed a few of
his classic hits such as “Rock and Roll Girl”, “I’m Working
Too Hard”, and “Helen” and explained in between songs how
he became a professional musician and the importance of pursuing
one’s goals and dreams and to never give up hope on doing what
makes you truly happy in life and also the importance of music
in defining cultures and enriching perspectives on life in general.
The children interacted with Paul by asking questions and he with
them by asking for participation through clapping and group singing.
At the end of the event, the children and staff lined up for
autographs and pictures and he happily obliged. His appearance
helped illustrate to the children the importance of music in their
lives and also served as an interesting peek into western culture
through music. It was a truly endearing moment for us here at SES
and happily received from all participants. Thank you so much, Paul!
