On October 17th, a ceremony was held in Beijing to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Zhao Songting, a legendary figure in the world of bamboo flute music. This event marked the debut of the newly published work “The Great Master: Complete Works of Zhao Songting’s Flute Art,” released by the People’s Music Publishing House, alongside an academic seminar focusing on Zhao’s artistic contributions.
Zhao Songting is recognized as one of China’s foremost bamboo flute performers, educators, composers, and theorists, dedicating over sixty years to the art of the flute. The new publication, carefully curated to honor his centenary, serves not only as a comprehensive collection of Zhao’s artistic life but also as a condensed history of Chinese bamboo flute art. The book is divided into two main sections: the first includes Zhao’s writings, teaching materials, flute compositions, and manuscripts on the Book of Changes, while the second part showcases the artistic legacy of the Zhao flute school—featuring papers from his direct disciples and representatives of the second generation, along with exemplary flute works. Overall, this publication is deemed a monumental compilation of Zhao Songting’s flute artistry.
During the subsequent seminar, attendees engaged in deep discussions regarding Zhao Songting’s professional contributions, his influences, stylistic characteristics, teaching methods, and creative output. They shared insights and research findings gained from studying the Zhao flute style, emphasizing Zhao Songting’s remarkable impact on preserving and promoting traditional Chinese culture, particularly in the realm of bamboo flute music. Experts at the seminar agreed that the release of this comprehensive volume holds significant historical and cultural importance in nurturing the Zhao flute tradition and advancing the broader cultural landscape of Chinese music, demonstrating its potential for creative transformation and innovative development.
This event was co-hosted by the People’s Music Publishing House and the Bamboo Flute Professional Committee of the Chinese National Orchestra Society, aiming to carry forward and promote excellent traditional culture while delving deeper into the study of Zhao Songting’s artistic style amidst the evolving context of contemporary bamboo flute music.
