Modern Developments In The Teaching Of Chinese Ethnic Vocal Music

Traditional Chinese ethnic folk music is rooted in the Chinese national culture. Throughout its long process of development, ethnic music has formed its own national and regional styles. During most of the country’s history, compared to western vocal music, there has been little advance in Chinese ethnic music in the relation to openness to lessons from other forms of music, technical advances in teaching, global exposure. Since the Reform and Opening-up of China, there have been many comprehensive cultural undertakings. Particularly in the area of international cultural exchange,"let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend" had a far-reaching impact on Chinese ethnic music which had previously had little technical development. Professor Jin Tielin, a vocal music educator, as a representative of generations of music workers, began with a deep understanding of Chinese folk music and absorbed the essence of western singing. Joining these two musical traditions together has helped make up for the shortcomings in Chinese vocal music, aided its improvement and formed the basis for a scientific teaching system. What is the future of the Chinese ethnic vocal music development direction? As I have personally experienced, continuing the teaching method of studying and practicing both Chinese and western musical traditions, will carry Chinese ethnic vocal music forward.