Experience the Harmony of Ancient Chinese Music: From Start to Finish

[Original text]

8·15 The Master said, “At the beginning of the Shizhi (1), the Guanxu (2) was in full swing!”

[Notes]

(1) Shi Zhi’s beginning: Shi Zhi was the master of music in the state of Lu. “Shi” is the beginning of a piece of music, i.e. the overture. In ancient times, the beginning of a piece of music was called “Sheng Ge” and was usually played by the master of music. Shi Zhi was the master of music, so it is said here that it was “Shi Zhi’s beginning.”

(2) “Guan Sui” chaos: “Shi” is the beginning of a piece of music and “chaos” is the end of a piece of music. “Chaos” is an ensemble piece. At this time, the music of Guan Sui was played, so it was called “the chaos of Guan Sui.”

Translation:

Confucius said, “From the beginning of the prelude played by the master Shi Zhi to the end of the music of Guan Sui, rich and beautiful music echoed in my ears.”

Confucius once said, “From the beginning played by the Grand Musician Zhi to the final notes of ‘Guan Ju,’ the rich and beautiful music resonates in my ears.”

This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the beauty and complexity of ancient Chinese music, reflecting not just an art form but a deep cultural heritage. Let’s explore this quote and understand its cultural significance, shedding light on how ancient Chinese music was composed and appreciated.

In ancient China, music was not merely a form of entertainment but an integral part of societal and spiritual life. The quote by Confucius highlights two essential components of a musical performance: the beginning and the end.

1. The Beginning – “Shi Zhi’s Opening”

Shi Zhi, mentioned in the quote, was the Grand Musician of the State of Lu. In ancient musical traditions, the opening piece, known as “Sheng Ge” (升歌), was usually performed by the Grand Musician. This opening set the tone for the entire performance, much like an overture in Western classical music. The “beginning” here represents the meticulous and solemn start of a musical piece, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and reverence.

2. The Ending – “The Finale of ‘Guan Ju'”

“Guan Ju” (关睢) is a well-known piece from the “Book of Songs,” one of the oldest collections of Chinese poetry. The “finale” or “Luan” (乱) refers to the closing segment of the performance, typically involving a harmonious ensemble of instruments. This finale not only brings the performance to a crescendo but also leaves a lingering resonance, echoing in the listener’s mind long after the music has stopped.

The beauty of this ancient music lies in its ability to convey profound emotions and thoughts through carefully orchestrated sounds. The richness mentioned by Confucius signifies the layered textures of the music, created by the interplay of various instruments, each contributing to a unified whole. The “beautiful music” reflects the aesthetics of harmony, balance, and grace, core principles of Chinese culture.

Cultural Context and Relevance

In Confucius’ time, music was deeply intertwined with the moral and ethical fabric of society. It was believed that music could influence one’s character and behavior. A well-composed piece was thought to bring about harmony and order, not just within the performance but also within the listener’s heart and mind.

For the modern American reader, this ancient perspective offers a fascinating glimpse into how the Chinese have historically valued and integrated music into their daily lives. It also underscores a universal truth: music is a powerful medium that transcends time and culture, capable of touching the human soul in profound ways.

Understanding and appreciating the depth of ancient Chinese music can enhance our global cultural awareness. By exploring such historical contexts, we not only honor the traditions of the past but also enrich our contemporary appreciation of music as a universal language.