A classroom for learning guqin (古琴), a plucked seven-string ancient Chinese musical instrument, is being placed in G Zone, and will be probably put to use next semester. “Classes for students and staff will become available soon,” says guqin instructor, Ms Mandy Li from Whole Person Education Office (WPEO).
Mandy plays the guqin. According to WPEO, guqin workshops will be offered next semester. Regular guqin performances will also be given
“Two apprentices will be sharing one guqin as there are only ten pieces available by far. However, extra seating will be given for interested audiences.”
Mandy would like to name the practice chamber “Nan Hai Qing Yin (南海清音, literally meaning South China Sea tranquillity)”, an idea inspired by her teacher, Master Ru Shan, a renowned guqin musician.
Guqin is closely associated with Confucian doctrine of the Mean (中庸之道, Zhong Yong Zhi Dao) and the philosophy of rites (礼, Li), according to Mandy.
She plays the guqin every morning and evening. It is necessary to practice a lot: not only to develop one’s skills, but also to develop oneself spiritually. “A guqin musician plays for himself, focusing on his inner world. He plays the music with heart and soul, and if lucky, he might meet a listener who understands his spiritual sound.” She says playing the guqin can reproduce history in an artistic way, connecting the past and the present.
With a history of over 2,000 years, the guqin is a symbol of Chinese high culture. It is regarded as the most essential Chinese music. Over 3,000 pieces of guqin music exist, and beginners can easily learn to play an elementary one within a semester.
Editor: Deen He
(Reprinted from MPRO’s UIC Beacon Issue VII, December 2013)
