The research article by Yi Zhou and Feng Yu titled, “Integration of traditional Chinese music: An Evaluation of the interactive influence between traditional music and aesthetic thought”, explores the impact and role of Chinese aesthetic thought within traditional Chinese music. The authors explore the three philosophies of Confucianism, Taoism, and Mohism highlighting their perspectives and influence on traditional Chinese music. Confucianism focuses on goodness and harmony, Taoism highlights nature and harmony between heaven and man, and Mohism emphasizes the idea of non-music. The idea of non-music within Mohism opposed the Confucian philosophy “of not seeking utilitarianism and overly emphasizing etiquette and music” (Yu & Zhou, 2024, p. 5). While it isn’t a complete negation of music, it rejects how Confucianism excessively advocates for music. Mohism still affirms the music’s ability to help people relax and feel happy. Much of traditional Chinese art places an emphasis on the relationship between man and nature. While other art forms such as poetry and painting praise and imitate nature, music focuses on man’s connection with nature. The essence of Chinese music is reflected through Lao Zi’s idea of “inaction”. When humans are disturbed and emotionally harmed, returning to nature will help them reach tranquility.
This article relates to my project as it discusses the relationship between traditional Chinese music and the aesthetic thought that influences it. The philosophies of Confucianism, Mohism, and Taoism all express different perspectives regarding music which will be interesting to consider when I compose my fusion piece. I would love to highlight man’s connection to nature within my piece. The use of technology is extremely prevalent in the contemporary landscape of popular music, so I would like to highlight this contrast within my piece to explore the theme of naturality vs. artificiality. This juxtaposition symbolizes the melding of heritage and mainstream cultures.
This week, I began the production process for my proof of concept. I explored different sample libraries that feature traditional Chinese instruments. Since I don’t have access to many traditional instruments or the skills to play them, using a sample library will be a great tool that will allow me to feature these instruments in my production. I began brainstorming musical ideas and themes for my composition. I want to highlight the erhu in my composition, so I am in the process of composing a melody to move forward with. I also came up with the idea of sampling pre-recorded traditional Chinese instrumental parts and incorporating them into my composition.
References
Zhou, Y., & Yu, F. (2024). Integration of traditional Chinese music: An evaluation of the interactive influence between traditional music and aesthetic thought. Trans/Form/Ação, 47(5). https://doi.org/10.1590/0101-3173.2024.v47.n5.e02400180