Music Diffusion from a Cross-Cultural Perspective: A Comparative Study of Ancient Mediterranean and Chinese Music Cultures

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the diffusion of music from a cross-cultural perspective, focusing on the interaction and exchange between ancient Mediterranean and Chinese music cultures. As an important part of human culture, music not only reflects the history and values of a nation, but also plays an important role in cross-cultural communication. By analyzing the musical form, function and socio-cultural background of ancient Mediterranean and China, this study reveals the similarities and differences in musical expression and cultural identity between the two.

First of all, this paper summarizes the basic characteristics of ancient Mediterranean music culture, including its various musical forms, instruments and performance techniques. The music of the ancient Mediterranean region was not only closely connected with its social life, but also played an important role in religion, celebrations and social rituals. These musical forms not only reflected the social structure and cultural values of the time, but also laid the foundation for later musical development.

The study then turns to ancient Chinese music culture, exploring its historical development and its deep relationship with philosophy and religion. Ancient Chinese music is famous for its unique melodies and rich kinds of Musical Instruments. Music plays an irreplaceable role in expressing emotions and transmitting culture. In addition, the function of Chinese music in social life, especially its importance in religious rituals and cultural inheritance, is also explored in detail.

In the part of comparative analysis, this paper focuses on the path and influence of music transmission, and analyzes the similarities and differences between the two cultures in terms of music theme, expression techniques and social and cultural significance. This paper discusses how the exchanges between ancient Mediterranean and Chinese musical cultures influenced each other's musical development through specific cases. It is found that although there are significant differences between the two in musical form and expression style, there are many similarities in the construction of musical function and cultural identity.

Finally, this paper summarizes the importance of comparative studies of ancient Mediterranean and Chinese musical cultures, and emphasizes the potential of cross-cultural exchange in enriching the musical heritage of mankind. This study not only provides a new perspective for the understanding of ancient music culture, but also lays a theoretical foundation for future musicological research. It is expected that future studies can further explore the musical interaction and influence between other cultures.