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Frontiers in Art Research, 2024, 6(5); doi: 10.25236/FAR.2024.060510.

Exploring Indeterminacy in Huachai Gong and Drum Ensemble: A Pathway to Creative Freedom and Harmony

Author(s)

Fan Jia1, Lee Chie Tsang Isaiah2

Corresponding Author:
Fan Jia
Affiliation(s)

1Faculty of Music, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang, China/Academy of Arts & Creative Technology (ACT), University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

2Academy of Arts & Creative Technology (ACT), University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Abstract

This article investigates the indeterminate musical elements within the Huachai gong and drum ensemble, a significant aspect of traditional Chinese music, highlighting its role as a catalyst for fostering creative freedom and harmony in the preservation and evolution of traditional music. By analyzing the variable rhythmic forms, melodic development methods, and indeterminacy improvisational timbre within the ensemble, this study demonstrates how indeterminacy can nurture a creative and harmonious atmosphere, enabling performers to innovate within the constraints of traditional forms. This research offers fresh perspectives on the exploration and transmission of traditional musical genres, proposing that embracing the indeterminacy of musical elements can lead to richer, more varied and inclusive musical experiences, and underscores its importance in both educational and practical contexts.

Keywords

Indeterminacy; Harmony; Rhythm; Timbre

Cite This Paper

Fan Jia, Lee Chie Tsang Isaiah. Exploring Indeterminacy in Huachai Gong and Drum Ensemble: A Pathway to Creative Freedom and Harmony. Frontiers in Art Research (2024) Vol. 6, Issue 5: 58-64. https://doi.org/10.25236/FAR.2024.060510.

References

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[2] Li, C. (2008). The ideal of harmony in ancient Chinese and Greek philosophy. Dao (7), 81-98.

[3] Editorial Committee of ‘Collection of Chinese Ethnic Folk Instrumental Music·Jiangxi Volume’. (2006). Collection of Chinese National Folk Instrumental Music·Jiangxi Volume. China ISBN Center. 

[4] Feng Guangyu. (2004). Qupai: the carrier of traditional Chinese music and unique music creation thinking. Journal of Xinghai Conservatory of Music (01), 1-15.

[5] Li Ya. (2019). Research on ‘improvisational’ performance of Jiangnan Sizhu. Chinese Musicology (02), 76-83.