HKU enhances student creativity and artistic expression through lyric writing

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The General Education Team of the Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS-GE) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) recently hosted the second installment of the 'Keen Lyricist Quest' programme, aiming to foster students' creativity and improve their language skills.

The programme, which has attracted over 600 students in two years, includes Creativity Seminars, Lyrics Writing Workshops, Competitions, Lunchtime Performances, and Outstanding Works Showcases.

The programme's Lyrics Writing Competitions received an impressive response, with over 160 submissions. This year's Chinese group champion adapted Jeremy Lee's song 'Half', exploring themes of self and gender issues. The winning piece was performed live by singer-songwriter, MANSONVIBES, at the Outstanding Works Showcase.

The winner of the 'Most Popular Work' award in 2023-2024, Amber Chen, expressed her gratitude to the University for providing the supportive platform of the "Keen Lyricist Quest" for students to showcase their creativity.

"Through this platform, we can publish our own creations, and the voices of students can be heard in a more thoughtful way," said Amber Chen. She mentioned that the greatest gain from participating in the event was meeting like-minded seniors and peers who are passionate about music and creation. "Through the activities, I was exposed to a wider variety of music, which inspired more creative ideas at the performance." She added.

NP Lee, the 2nd runner-up of the Adaptation Group in 2022-2023, shared that through 'Keen Lyricist Quest', he was able to connect with industry professionals and gained opportunities to publish his lyrics outside HKU.

"Ever since my work was recognised at the Competition, I have continued to delve into lyric writing for the past two years. I gradually had the chance to connect with more music professionals other than lyricists, which not only broadened my horizons but also opened up new paths for my creations." NP Lee shared.

Cheng Man, an instructor and judge of the programme from 2022 to 2024, as well as an HKU alumnus, was delighted to see the students' achievements. "I could see the students' lyric writing skills have been improved through the seminars, workshops, and the lyrics submitted by the students. Their understanding of Cantonese pop music has also been enhanced. I hope that in the future, the "Keen Lyricist Quest" will have the opportunity to expand its influence to even larger platforms, nurturing more people with a passion for lyric writing, especially in the Cantonese music genre," said Cheng Man.

Professor Samson Tse, Dean of Student Affairs of HKU, described the programme as highly meaningful. "I could deeply feel the students' passion for creation, their enthusiasm for music, and their dedication to crafting lyrics. The "Keen Lyricist Quest" platform connects like-minded and music-loving students from diverse backgrounds. Through exchanging with seasoned practitioners in the industry, their horizons have been broadened, and they have gone through an incredibly enriching learning journey." Professor Tse remarked.

For enquiries about the programme and partnership collaboration, please contact the Programme Officer, Ms Karen Lam (Tel: 39175044, Email: [email protected]).

More about Keen Lyricist Quest: https://www.cedars.hku.hk/GE-Lyricist