Status | 已發表Published |
Rhyme of China – Anthology of Traditional Chinese Music Orchestrated for Western Musical Instruments | |
Wang, P. C. | |
Subtype | 著Authored |
2021-03-01 | |
Publisher | Quantum Press, USA |
Publication Place | Montgomery |
Abstract | Chinese musical instruments can be traced to as early as 5000 years ago, when percussion and woodwind instruments were played in the Neolithic Age. In the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties (2070 – 256 BC), only emperors had the privilege of enjoying music, which was mainly used in the various ceremonies related to the emperors. During the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD), a combination of singing and dancing performances were common among both royal families and ordinary people in China. “A long tradition of absorbing elements from religion and from foreign cultures has kept Chinese folk music colorful and meaningful. Different from Western musical instruments, Chinese instruments were traditionally categorized by the material they were made of, a system known as Ba-Yin (Eight Categories). These eight categories are metal, stone, silk bamboo, gourd, clay, skin, and wood. The music might be performed by large ensembles, as chamber music, or as concerto or solo performances. The scales used in this music include the pentatonic (Do, Re, Mi, So, La) and the Chinese twelve-tone, which is Huang Zhong (黃鐘), Da Lu (大呂), Tai Cu (太簇), Jia Zhong (夾鍾), Gu Xian (姑洗), Zhong Lu (中呂), Rui Bin (蕤賓), Lin Zhong (林鍾), Yi Ze (夷則), Nan Lu (南呂), Wu Yi (無射), and Ying Zhong (應鐘). These are similar to C, G, D, A, E, B, #F, #C, #G, #D, #A, and F) in Western music. Like the various theories and restrictions in Western classical music, traditional Chinese music also follows its own compositional rules. To maintain and respect the original Chinese music theory, styles and sound of the music, the author has orchestrated the music to keep the original effects and music theory, even when performed by Western instruments. Most Chinese folk music was inspired by ancient Chinese poems or special occasions, such as festival celebrations. However, some songs focused on family reunions, while others chronicled military campaigns or simple scenes from daily life. Inspired by the unique historical insights of this music, the author hopes to introduce it to other nations. This book analyzes the structure, rhythm, and intervals used in twelve famous Chinese folk songs. Additionally, the range of each instrument is explored and the orchestration (for various musical ensembles and for a symphony composed of Western musical instruments) is finalized. While remaining respectful of the original themes and composition, the author has rearranged melodies and structures in order to accomplish this orchestration. It is expected that this newly arranged orchestration will bring fresh life and meaning to the music. Most importantly, the author hopes not only to rekindle interest in ancient Chinese music but also to promote this fascinating aesthetic to the rest of the world. |
Keyword | Chinese Traditional Music orchestrated arranged |
ISBN | 9781889009742 |
Language | 英語English |
The Source to Article | PB_Publication |
PUB ID | 58035 |
Document Type | Book |
Collection | Faculty of Education |
Recommended Citation GB/T 7714 | Wang, P. C.. Rhyme of China – Anthology of Traditional Chinese Music Orchestrated for Western Musical Instruments[M]. Montgomery:Quantum Press, USA, 2021. |
APA | Wang, P. C..(2021). Rhyme of China – Anthology of Traditional Chinese Music Orchestrated for Western Musical Instruments. Quantum Press, USA. |
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