My grandfather Ma Lianliang ()

Author: Ma Long
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-03-19
Features: Reconstructs the magnificent artistic achievements and turbulent life journey of the Peking Opera master Ma Lianliang, accompanied by a DVD featuring classic singing excerpts by Ma Lianliang. Since the beginning of the Qing Dynasty three hundred years ago until today, from the perspective of the evolution of national culture, the works that represent the artistic characteristics of the Qing Dynasty are: the paintings of the "Four Wangs," the calligraphy of Wang Menglou, the poetry of Wang Yuyang, and the prose of the Tongcheng School. In the field of Peking Opera, there is a spiritual essence that resonates with the aforementioned works, and it stands as the representative of the Lao Sheng school during this vast historical context—this is the performing art of Ma Lianliang. —Qi Gong
After 1840, Peking Opera can be divided into Modern Peking Opera, Modern Peking Opera, and Contemporary Peking Opera. In terms of the Lao Sheng role, Tan Xinpei is the culmination of the Modern period. The artistic achievements of Yu Shuyan, Yan Guoping, and Gao Qingkui represent the peak of the Modern Lao Sheng school. The rising figure of the Modern period who stands as the representative of the Contemporary Lao Sheng school is undoubtedly Ma Lianliang. —Wu Xiaozhi
Before Ma Lianliang, this style of art had only seen glimpses but had not bloomed, but with him, it blossomed. Ma’s art was not just keeping pace with the times; it created an era. —Ouyang Zhongshi
My grandfather, Ma Lianliang, had already considered publishing a personal chronicle titled Wenruji during his performances in Shanghai in 1948. Later, he entrusted his friend, the renowned painter Zhang Daqian, to inscribe the title, and asked the theater critic Shen Weichuang to oversee the project. Through the description of his more than forty years of life, he hoped to provide a comprehensive summary of his artistic journey. The content covered both art and life, with rich illustrations and a grand scope. Due to historical reasons, Wenruji was never published, but Mr. Shen often spoke excitedly about this plan. My ancestors lived with an open and upright heart, and their life was a reflection of the saying, "Sing the opera earnestly, live honestly." They were widely praised by the world. When friends asked for his autograph, he often wrote, "From the hall of Sima Wen Gong, I have no extraordinary qualities, but my life’s actions have never been anything I could not speak of openly." I believe this was not only his life’s motto but also the guiding principle for writing his biography. If I were to summarize my grandfather’s life in two simple sentences, it would be "magnificent artistic achievements and a turbulent life journey."
There are already many articles and books about his artistic achievements, and as a layman, I dare not speak on this matter. As a descendant of the Ma family, my understanding of my grandfather differs slightly from that of outsiders. I will only share the stories of his life that I know with the readers. If it is enjoyable to read, I will be very satisfied.