Five Major Tunes of Southern Shandong

TANCHENG, China, Nov. 27, 2024 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/–
Shandong boasts a melodious treasure known as the Five Major Tunes of Southern Shandong, an invaluable piece of intangible cultural heritage. Like a brilliant pearl in the river of history, it awaits global appreciation and recognition.

Performance of the Five Major Tunes of Southern Shandong

Also referred to as Tanma Tunes or Tanma Five Major Tunes, this traditional folk art originated during the Ming and Qing dynasties and has been preserved and passed down through generations in Southern Shandong. Its melodies are simple yet elegant, with lyrics rich in content, ranging from heartfelt depictions of toilers’ daily lives to vivid portrayals of natural scenery. The Five Major Tunes include “Huai Tune,” “Da Tune,” “Lingling Tune,” “Man Jiang Hong,” and “Xiu He Bao.” Each tune has its unique charm with distinct emotions and stories that together weave a vivid tapestry of folk culture and life. Performers and accompanists typically gather around a table, playing traditional instruments such as flute, xiao, sheng, huqin, sanxian, pipa, and yueqin. They sing while accompanying themselves, sometimes even using daily items like wine cups, plates, or bowls as percussion instruments to enhance the music’s charm and add a lively flair to the performance. The melodies can be passionate and resonant, reflecting the resilience and strength of laborers, or gentle and intricate, expressing the tranquility and charm of rural life.

Handed down through the generations, the Five Major Tunes of Southern Shandong continue to transcend time and space with their unique musical style and profound cultural significance. They narrate the customs and stories of southern Shandong, becoming an integral part of the rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture.