The local music tradition known as Ten Piece is getting revived attention in Fuzhou city. The centuries-old melodies have become part of the curriculum, in primary schools.
Auditions are being held to select future instrumentalists, in Ten Piece music. The best candidates will receive lessons from masters in strings, woodwind, percussion -- ten different instruments in all.
This is the Number Four Primary School of Taijiang District, where Ten Piece got its start 200 years ago. A 40-member-strong band is being put together, by instructor Chen Yingmu. The 74-year-old musician is delighted to see renewed interest in his art.
Folk musician Chen Yimu said:"These children are very bright. They've got excellent memories and learn very fast. Ten Piece is special to the Fuzhou area. You'll find nothing like it anywhere else."
Ten Piece music was originally an elaboration on songs for dragon dances. The style became part of local life, played on major occasions like weddings and funerals. Earlier this year, Fuzhou Ten Piece Music was placed on the National Intangible Heritage List.
(China Daily November 17, 2006)
