Jiangnan Sizhu

Jiangnan Sizhu is a term used to describe the traditional Sizhu music that is popular in southern Jiangsu, western Zhejiang, and Shanghai. The ensemble primarily consists of string and wind instruments such as the Erhu, Yangqin, Pipa, Sanxian, Qinqin, Di, and Xiao, which is how it gets its name.

During the Jialong period of the Ming Dynasty, opera musicians, led by Wei Liangfu, created the Kunqu Shuimo tune at the South Wharf of Taicang. Alongside this development, a full-scale string and bamboo orchestra was formed, with Zhang Yetang as a central figure. The musicians used gongche notation, and the ensemble included members from Kunqu troupes and hall drummers. Over time, this ensemble evolved into a dedicated group for string and bamboo performances. By the end of the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, a new musical form known as "Xian Suo" emerged in Wuzhong (Suzhou area), which is considered the precursor to Jiangnan Sizhu. Deeply connected to folk activities, it enjoyed widespread popularity and eventually became officially known as Jiangnan Sizhu.

The traditional techniques of Jiangnan Sizhu include intricate methods such as balancing complexity with simplicity, varying pitch, adding embellishments and variations, embedding and giving way, and improvisation. These techniques contributed to the distinctive style of Jiangnan Sizhu, characterized by its "small, fine, light, and elegant" qualities. This approach reflects profound social and cultural values, such as mutual humility, coordination, and innovation among people. Jiangnan Sizhu music, rooted in folk traditions, is simple, easy to learn, and has significant cultural value, making it accessible and promotable.

Jiangnan Sizhu boasts a rich repertoire, including traditional pieces like "Zhonghua Liuban," "Sanliu," "Xingjie," "Sihe," and "Yunqing." Notable adaptations include Nie Er's transformation of "Dao Baban" into "Jinshe Kuangwu," which quickly gained nationwide popularity, and Liu Tianhua's arrangement and creation of "Bianzhu Xinshuiling," which became a celebrated piece with a profound influence across the country. The emergence and continuation of Jiangnan Sizhu music have played a vital role in the study of national music history, as well as the development of opera, folk culture, and mass culture. Jiangnan Sizhu stands as a distinguished representative of the Jiangnan water town culture.

By the 1960s and 1970s, traditional Jiangnan Sizhu ensembles had largely disbanded. As the older generation of artists, many of whom were over 70 years old, passed away, the tradition faced a severe shortage of successors. Coupled with a limited repertoire, Jiangnan Sizhu is increasingly endangered and at risk of fading into obscurity.