Prof Chou Chun-yi, founder of the Chinese Traditional Orchestra at Taiwan’s Nanhua University, gave three lectures on Chinese traditional yayue (elegant music) and its ritual use at UIC from 17 to 18 October.
In the House of Qin (guqin), Prof Chou spoke of three topics: philosophy of Chinese music; how to tune guqin; and how to play instruments of Chinese yayue and read tablature.
Prof Chou pointed out that music is an art related to life (appearing) and death (disappearing). While one sound stops, another continues. These sounds create a wonderful song. He also introduced the ancient Chinese musical scales in comparison to Western music.
The lectures were organised by the Whole Person Education Office and co-organised by the Nan Hai Qing Yin Guqin Interest Club and the Traditional Arts Club.
Reporters: Lily Li, Siobhan Shen (ATS, Year 4)
Editor: Deen He
(from WPEO, with special thanks to the ELC)
