Integration of archaeological and ethnic musical elements: A case study of Chinese piano works

Abstract

Since the 20th century, Chinese piano works have gradually evolved into a musical art form with distinct national characteristics, particularly through the incorporation of unique ethnic elements in creation and performance, making them a significant medium for showcasing the essence of Chinese music culture. This paper focuses on the manifestation and performance application of ethnic elements in Chinese piano works, aiming to reveal their shaping effect on the style of the works and their value in piano performance practice. Initially, the paper reviews the development of Chinese piano works, explores their deep roots in Chinese folk music, and highlights the specific expressions of ethnic elements in melody, rhythm, harmony, and timbre. These elements not only enhance the national characteristics of the works but also endow the piano pieces with unique artistic charm, allowing them to carry the essence of traditional music while adapting to the characteristics of the Western instrument, the piano.

Through literature analysis and work interpretation, the paper delves into ethnic elements such as melodic characteristics, rhythmic structure, and timbre processing. The use of the traditional Chinese pentatonic scale imparts a distinctive national flavor to the melody; typical rhythmic patterns give the works strong regional characteristics, such as the reproduction of folk dance and folk song rhythms in piano works, adding national character. Additionally, the treatment of harmony and timbre by imitating the sounds of national instruments allows the piano works to convey the artistic conception of traditional Chinese music. By detailed analysis of these elements, the paper further reveals their application in performance practice. Performers can better present the characteristics of folk music through adjustments in fingering, touch, and pedal control. Moreover, understanding and interpreting the national style is crucial for performers to accurately express the emotions of the work, enhancing the expressive power of the piece and deepening the performer's comprehension of national music.

This study also analyzes the embodiment of ethnic elements in specific works and their impact on performance through case studies of representative piano works. Taking the Yellow River Piano Concerto as an example, the work achieves the effect of traditional Chinese musical instruments through the adoption of national melodies and rhythmic interpretation, adding to the national aesthetic of the piece. It is found that these ethnic elements not only enrich the expression of piano works but also promote the development of Chinese piano music education. In modern piano education, the application of ethnic elements helps to improve students' sense of national culture, enhances their appreciation of traditional music, and deepens their understanding of the cultural connotations of Chinese music.

In summary, this paper examines the performance characteristics of ethnic elements in Chinese piano works and their practical application in performance, demonstrating their significant role in enriching the expression of piano works, which holds substantial artistic and educational value. In the future, with the revival of national culture and the demand for musical innovation, the application prospects of ethnic elements in piano works will be even broader. This study not only provides theoretical support for piano performance but also offers a reference for the integration and development of folk music in modern art.