The current situation and musical characteristics of Jinqian Ban in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China

Abstract

This research focuses on the current situation and musical characteristics of Jinqian Ban in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China. Three objectives: 1) the current situation, 2) musical characteristics, and 3) propose guidelines for the preservation and transmission of Jinqian Ban in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China. The qualitative research method involved conducting interviews and observations with four key informants. The results are as follows:

1) Current Status: The study examines the conditions of Jinqian Ban's musicians, the institutional environment, and the teaching practices surrounding the art form. Critical challenges include a decline in the number of performers, an aging practitioner population, the loss of traditional songs due to oral transmission, and a shrinking performance market. These findings highlight the urgency of preserving Jinqian Ban and emphasize the need for renewed efforts to sustain this cultural heritage.

2) Musical Characteristics: The research provides a detailed analysis of five representative songs, focusing on melody, rhythm, beat, singing style, and lyrical content. The unique features of Jinqian Ban are identified, such as its reliance on the pentatonic scale, integration of regional dialects, and distinctive rhythmic patterns that differentiate it from other Chinese folk music forms. This comprehensive examination fills a significant gap in the academic literature, offering new insights into the structure and performance practices of Jinqian Ban.

3) Preservation and Transmission: The study proposes a multifaceted approach to safeguarding Jinqian Ban, emphasizing the importance of institutional support through specialized organizations. It advocates for the documentation and recording of traditional songs, integrating Jinqian Ban into educational curricula, and utilizing modern media to promote the art form to a broader audience. Additionally, innovative strategies are suggested, such as combining Jinqian Ban with other art forms and integrating it into tourism, to enhance its appeal and ensure its continued relevance.

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