Youth Learning the History of Chinese Music

Author: Jin Jianmin (Editor)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: The history of Chinese music can be divided into two parts: the ancient period and the modern period. The ancient period can be further divided into three periods:
1. Pre-Qin Period (before 207 BC). This period was a time when China transitioned from feudalism to feudalism in history. In terms of music, it was marked by the emergence of musical systems and the prosperity of, specifically: various instruments, primarily percussion instruments, gradually appeared; large court orchestras were initially formed; the Book of Songs and Chu Ci were published; preliminary theories of musical aesthetics and pitch systems were established. All these laid a comprehensive foundation for ancient musical culture.
2. Han and Tang Periods (206 BC to 960 AD). Over more than 1,100 years, Chinese culture experienced development and transformation through the Han, Wei-Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties, reaching a peak in the Tang Dynasty. In terms of music, it was marked by frequent exchanges between the Han and ethnic minorities and the prosperity of court entertainment music. Specifically: folk songs flourished; poetry was widely circulated; musical instruments and dances from the Western Regions, Northern nomads, and Arabia were extensively introduced; instrumental music, represented by pipa music, reached a high level of development; Tang Dynasty dance-songs were profound and extensive; various notation methods gradually emerged and were widely used; numerous musicians emerged; many instruments and music spread to countries like Japan and Korea.
3. Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Periods (960 AD to 1840 AD). During these 800 years, the feudal society in China began to decline, and capitalist economic factors emerged in the middle period of the Ming Dynasty, playing a significant role in the vibrancy of thought and culture. In terms of music, it was marked by the rapid development of quyi and opera music. Specifically: folk tunes and Ci tunes became widely popular; quyi music became a favorite art form for urban citizens; the four major vocal styles of opera each had its unique charm; the development and maturity of solo and ensemble forms of various instruments; the continuous publication of guqin collections; the birth of Zhu Zaiyu's 12-tone equal temperament; further development of musical aesthetics. All these injected new vitality into ancient Chinese music.