The analysis of Qiqiao Songs in Xihe County, Gansu Province

Abstract

This study uses the research methods of musicology and ethnomusicology to collect and analyze statistical data through field reports. The three purposes of this study are: 1) To investigate the history and development of Qiqiao Songs in Xihe county, Gansu province; 2) To analyze the characteristic of Qiqiao songs in Xihe county, Gansu province; 3) To propose the measures for transmission and preservation of Qiqiao songs in Xihe county, Gansu province.

The results of this study are as follows: 1) the history of Qiqiao songs is divided into 3 stages: Formation stage (221BC -589AD), Progressive stage (590AD -1279AD), Maturation stage (1280AD-1925AD), the development of Qiqiao songs is divided into 4 stages: Prosperity stage (1926AD-1948AD), Interruption stage (1949AD-1979AD), Recovery stage (1980AD-2005AD), Revival stage (2006AD-2023AD). 2) In terms of formal structure, the structure of Qiqiao songs is relatively simple. In terms of structural pitch progression: The melody outline of Qiqiao songs is frequently expressed as an ascending and descending alternating movement. Relation between text and melody phrase: The lyrics are simple, accompanied by rhymes. In terms of mode: the tune of Qiqiao songs mostly based on the typical pentatonic scale. 3) The basic line of preservation for Qiqiao songs and the specific guidelines for the preservation of those songs can be determined through filed work.

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