The local music tradition known as Ten Piece is getting revived
attention in Fuzhou city. The centuries-old melodies have become
part of the curriculum, in primary schools.
Auditions are being held to select future instrumentalists, in
Ten Piece music. The best candidates will receive lessons from
masters in strings, woodwind, percussion -- ten different
instruments in all.
This is the Number Four Primary School of Taijiang District,
where Ten Piece got its start 200 years ago. A 40-member-strong
band is being put together, by instructor Chen Yingmu. The
74-year-old musician is delighted to see renewed interest in his
art.
Folk musician Chen Yimu said:"These children are very bright.
They've got excellent memories and learn very fast. Ten Piece is
special to the Fuzhou area. You'll find nothing like it anywhere
else."
Ten Piece music was originally an elaboration on songs for
dragon dances. The style became part of local life, played on major
occasions like weddings and funerals. Earlier this year, Fuzhou Ten
Piece Music was placed on the National Intangible Heritage
List.
(China Daily November 17, 2006)