The Explorer's Quest - A Study on the Composition of Zhu Jian'er's Symphony: A Study on the Composition of Zhu Jian'er's Symphony

Author: Cai Qiao Zhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: This book urgently calls for a comprehensive and summarizing study of the creative works of the older generation of renowned composers in modern China. Cai Qiao Zhong selects Zhu Jian Er, one of the most outstanding representatives in the history of contemporary symphonic composition in China, and his works as the research subject, which holds significant practical importance. This thesis is the academic outcome achieved by the author in expanding the comprehensive research path on the composer's creative works, building upon his master's thesis research. As a doctoral dissertation in the field of "Composition and Composition Theory," the author conducts a thorough and in-depth analysis of the compositional techniques of Zhu Jian Er's six most representative symphonies (serial technique, formal structure, tonalized melody, numerical rhythm, harmonic technique, subtonal technique, polyphonic technique, timbre technique, aleatoric music technique, microtonal technique). While showcasing Zhu Jian Er's personalized technical language and stylistic features formed by the integration of Western 20th-century important compositional techniques with Chinese national music cultural thinking, the thesis also profoundly elaborates on the various experiences the composer gained in exploring nationalization and creatively developing a more open attitude toward the traditional and conservative attitudes and limitations of certain compositional techniques in foreign countries.
In addition to the detailed analysis of compositional techniques, the thesis dedicates considerable space to philosophical summaries and expressions of the artistic innovation of the works, the philosophical connotations of the themes, aesthetic ideas, and the evolution of the composer's creative concepts and technical styles across different developmental stages. It places the composer and his creative achievements within the broader context of the historical development of 20th-century music culture in both China and the West, embodying the profound philosophical depth characteristic of a doctoral dissertation.
Based on extensive communication with the composer and the acquisition of primary materials, the author of the thesis conducted a large volume of independent and highly detailed analyses, arriving at many unique analytical conclusions. Furthermore, the author provides an independent academic evaluation of the composer's artistic achievements and shortcomings.