Lixue Zhai Qinpu, one volume, two books

Author: Qīng · Wāng Fú
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-03-01
Features: Lì Xuě Qí Qín Pǔ, compiled by Wāng Fú of the Qing Dynasty, completed in the eighth year of the Yongzheng reign (1730). Two volumes, the first volume includes: 203 fingerings, 25 modes fingerings, 5 mode enlightenment, and 3 Wen as well as 9 ancient tunes; the second volume contains 7 tunes created by Wāng, totaling 16 tunes. "Lì Xuě Qí" was the name of Wāng's study, hence the title Lì Xuě Qí Qín Pǔ. Wāng Fú (1692–1759), originally named Xuǎn, styled Cànrén, and styled Shuāngchí, was from Wuyuan. He wrote Lè Jīng Lǚ Lǚ Tōng Jiě and claimed, "In the study of the qin, I practice but do not master, yet through singing and harmonizing, I grasp its essence. Dark and tall, I have encountered it in the morning and evening." Wāng Fú advocated a qin style that valued simplicity and harmony, opposing the "ceremonial intent, lingering and excessive, complex sounds, and hurried rhythms that seek to add sorrow." He believed, "The music of the ancient kings valued simplicity and harmony. Simplicity calms the mind, and harmony dispels restlessness." Therefore, he compiled his frequently played tunes and self-composed scores into Lì Xuě Qí Qín Pǔ, aligning them with his musical theory. The pieces in the collection are measured with simplicity and harmony, some serene and self-possessed, some sorrowful and contemplative, some distant and ethereal, or peaceful and expansive—aiming to "keep within the bounds of modesty and justice." However, he excluded tunes with overly indulgent or harsh tones that deviated from harmony and simplicity.