A Study on Tang Dynasty Musicians

Author: Mao Shuiqing
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-11-01
Features: The Tang Dynasty was a period of comprehensive flourishing in Chinese literature and art, and music was no exception. Over this span of nearly a century, numerous singing activities of different regions, levels, and forms emerged, greatly promoting the widespread integration of foreign and folk tunes. This led to the creation of many musical pieces, instruments, and musicians, leaving a profound impact on later generations. Unfortunately, the life stories of these outstanding musicians, singers, and folk artists have long been little known. Especially for folk artists, due to their low social status, they were mostly scattered in remote areas, even more obscure and forgotten, which is truly a pity.
Through extensive collection, sorting, and organization, coupled with thorough research and verification, the author of this book has spent years compiling this academic work of approximately 300,000 words. It contains many significant discoveries and innovations, holding considerable academic value and stands as a distinctive and pioneering monograph on the music history of the Tang Dynasty. The preface at the beginning of the book outlines the basic features of Tang Dynasty music. Subsequently, the "Biographies of Musicians" provides detailed investigations into over 130 Tang Dynasty musicians (including court musicians, literary musicians, and folk musicians), offering reliable and comprehensive accounts. Where possible, the author has gone into great detail, striving to present a complete picture. Although some aspects had to be omitted temporarily, the book also provides materials for further research for reference.
The book includes two appendices. The first offers a general introduction to music and musicians before the Tang Dynasty, enabling readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of China's long musical history and complementing the role of the preface. The second presents a concise and comprehensive chart of instruments, musical pieces, musical dances, and musicians, giving readers a deeper impression of Tang Dynasty music in both breadth and depth.
The writing style of the book is vivid, fluent, concise, and sometimes even rich in lyrical expression, avoiding dryness. It is believed that readers will find it engaging, enhance their aesthetic appreciation, and gain valuable insights.