The Yale Spizzwinks, an a cappella group from Yale University, performed alongside teachers and students from Donghua University and its affiliate schools on March 12 in Shanghai.

Founded in 1914, the Spizzwinks is the oldest undergraduate a cappella group in the United States. Composed entirely of full-time Yale students, the group has performed worldwide, contributing to international cultural exchange.

At Donghua University's Songjiang campus, the Spizzwinks captivated the audience with a mix of classic a cappella pieces, including Blue Skies and No Regrets, as well as popular Chinese songs such as Hao Han Ge (The Song of Heroes) and When You Get Old.

They also performed unique East-West fusion pieces like Wake Freshmen Wake and Lemon Tree.

Complementing their performance, singing groups and choirs from Donghua University and its affiliate schools presented Chinese folk classics like Chanty of the Ussuri River.

The concert concluded with a heartfelt joint rendition of Auld Lang Syne by students from both nations.

Beyond the concert, the Spizzwinks explored Chinese intangible cultural heritage and traditional musical instruments, deepening cross-cultural understanding.

Abril, a member of the group, was particularly impressed by the rich traditions of Chinese folk instruments and culture.

Meanwhile, Guo Chengcheng from Donghua University’s folk music ensemble expressed excitement about learning from the Spizzwinks’ stage presence and vocal techniques.