The wind from the Far East
Exploring the Mysteries and Wonders of China Music
China music is steeped in tradition and has been evolving for centuries. It's a fascinating world filled with history, genre, and incredible sounds. From its eclectic range of instruments to its rich storytelling lyrics, Chinese music has a calming and hypnotic power that will captivate anyone who listens. Join me as we explore the wonders and mysteries of China music.
The history of China music can be traced back to ancient times. Traditional melodies were created as a way to honor ancestors and celebrate the beauty of nature. As time passed, various dynasties and emperors encouraged the development of music. Influenced by Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, Chinese music became a reflection of the country's culture, religion, and philosophy.
An important aspect of China music is the use of traditional instruments. They include the guqin, a seven-stringed zither, which is often used to express melancholy moods. Erhu, a two-string spike fiddle, creates a sound that is both haunting and beautiful. Dizi, a transverse bamboo flute, produces a host of sounds, from soft ethereal melodies to bold, vibrant tunes.
In terms of genre, China music has a wide range, from folk to classical. One example of traditional Chinese folk music is the lusheng music of the Miao people found in southwestern China. Classical music in China includes the famous Spring on a Moonlit River. This song, which is still popular today, is considered an essential part of the traditional Chinese canon. Chinese pop music, or C-Pop, has become popular globally, with artists such as Jay Chou and K-pop sensation BTS incorporating Chinese musical elements into their work.
China music has influenced the world. One example of this influence is the chinoiserie movement, which was popular in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was a style characterized by elaborate decorative items inspired by China culture. The influence of Chinese culture on western music can be seen in the works of Gustav Mahler and Claude Debussy who both incorporated Chinese musical elements into their compositions.
China music is more than just an art form; it's a reflection of history, religion, and culture. The country's unique sound is a result of a long and diverse history that spans centuries. Music lovers interested in China music should take the time to explore its rich heritage, instruments, genres, and the many classics and contemporary pieces that are available. Immerse yourself in the mysteries and wonders of China music, and rediscover your inner self with its calming and hypnotic power. Joyful tunes from the Far East bring smiles to all!
Latest songs added to the playlist:
1-Japanese Instrumental - Eternity
2-Nigakute Amai Mizu - Jigoku Shoujo Mitsuganae
3-Mongolian Music - Healing Soul Spirit Song
4-Deep Forest - Sweet Lullaby
5-Sayuri's Theme - Memoirs Of A Geisha
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2023-03-16
Japanese Music
Michael Jackson's release of Thriller in 1984, put American music on the map in Japan by selling a record breaking million albums, this album became number one in the Japanese music charts and is credited for launching dance and disco music in Japan. Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones and The Beatles, launched the Japanese folk rock genre and developed this further from the 1960's to a strong following of J-Rock, as it is known today. Japan has the widest range of music, from heavy metal, electro pop, extreme metal, club music and many more genres, this mixed bag of collectives makes Japan the Karaoke city of music.
Japan has an array of performers, with a distinct style of both modern and traditional. As the largest music market in the world, Japanese music artists are listed to have held the highest percentage globally of record selling albums. Historic Japanese music is primarily based on short intervals of human breathing rather than the mathematical timing of the Western music. Shomyo or Buddhist chanting used within the Shigon and Tendai sects, along with Gagaku orchestral court music, performed at the Imperial Court in Kyoto. Are both the two forms of music recognised as the oldest form of Japanese Music.
Jazz music has become very popular in Japan, with the two brothers Okino Shuya and Okino Yoshihiro increasing this genre and attracting a younger audience. Japanese pop or sometimes referred to as J-pop started building a reputation in the 1990's Japanese music mainstream. Toru Takemitsu was well known and famous for his Western Classical music having a strong presence in Japan, and delivering outstanding work on movie scoring. The Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra and the All-Japan Band Association are respected and known as the two of the world's most leading wind bands to have come out of Japan, respected for the history of only learning western classical music in the second half of the 19th Century.
Japan has an array of performers, with a distinct style of both modern and traditional. As the largest music market in the world, Japanese music artists are listed to have held the highest percentage globally of record selling albums. Historic Japanese music is primarily based on short intervals of human breathing rather than the mathematical timing of the Western music. Shomyo or Buddhist chanting used within the Shigon and Tendai sects, along with Gagaku orchestral court music, performed at the Imperial Court in Kyoto. Are both the two forms of music recognised as the oldest form of Japanese Music.
Jazz music has become very popular in Japan, with the two brothers Okino Shuya and Okino Yoshihiro increasing this genre and attracting a younger audience. Japanese pop or sometimes referred to as J-pop started building a reputation in the 1990's Japanese music mainstream. Toru Takemitsu was well known and famous for his Western Classical music having a strong presence in Japan, and delivering outstanding work on movie scoring. The Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra and the All-Japan Band Association are respected and known as the two of the world's most leading wind bands to have come out of Japan, respected for the history of only learning western classical music in the second half of the 19th Century.
Tag: japan, orientexpress, jrock, tokioconnection
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