Pipa Ensemble Research and Tutorial

Author: Li Kunli Compiler
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: The pipa is a traditional Chinese plucked string instrument with a long history. Since its emergence, known as the Qin pipa (originally called xiantao) around 217 BC, this ancient instrument has a history of over 2,200 years. Through centuries of artistic accumulation, it has developed a rich repertoire and exceptional playing techniques. Among the numerous pipa pieces that have emerged over the generations, there are both grand pieces (also known as large sets) and small pieces (also known as small sets); within the grand pieces, there are further distinctions between literary and martial pieces. These traditionally transmitted pipa melodies were only systematically composed, edited, and published by scholars in the 19th century, with most being solo scores and a small number of ensemble scores. Traditional pipa performance primarily involves solo and ensemble playing, and it also plays a significant role as accompaniment for quyi, opera, poetry, and song. Professor Li Kunli's compiled work, Research and Tutorial on Pipa Ensemble, holds academic value in bridging the past and looking to the future. These pieces not only inherit the tradition of classical pipa music but also embody innovative spirit. Building upon the foundations of traditional solo and ensemble performances, they expand the artistic expressiveness of pipa music, opening up a new realm for the art of pipa. In this Research and Tutorial on Pipa Ensemble, it not only collects some of the finest contemporary pipa ensemble pieces but also includes many composed by Professor Li Kunli herself, showcasing her talent in arranging and creating pipa ensemble music as well as her skill in performing it.