New Interpretations of 500 Chinese Folk Songs

Author: Zhou Xiaoquan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-05-01
Features: This new edition of "500 New Chinese Folk Songs" is a significant collection of folk songs in China in the 21st century. Folk songs are immortal, their vitality enduring, and destined to be passed down through generations. However, as we "step into a new era," folk songs naturally absorb new life and contemporary passion, leading to their evolution in the process of being sung. Some familiar melodies are given "embellishments" or "variations," while old lyrics are rewritten to reflect new lifestyles. The compiler, Zhou Xiaoquan, has recognized this evolution and undertaken a fresh selection of folk songs. She first rigorously curated a collection of classic folk songs from the vast ocean of folk traditions. Additionally, she gathered numerous new versions of folk songs with embellishments, variations, or newly written lyrics, compiling them into this collection—hence the name "New Singing" for this new folk song anthology. May we, in the new century, sing even more fervently about "national unity" and patriotic passion, expressing our heartfelt yearning for a new life and ideals. This book is divided into two parts, featuring 500 renowned folk songs from Han and ethnic minority groups across all provinces of China. These songs are rich in ethnic flavor and local cultural characteristics, offering great help in understanding the folk song traditions of different ethnic groups and regions in China. The book is also suitable for folk song enthusiasts and professional performance groups.