An Introduction to Four Selected Chinese Contemporary Songs by Xi Zhao (1973)

Abstract

Xi Zhao (1973) is one of the few pioneers of innovation in the Chinese art song. Professor Zhao’s music is a fusion of Chinese, international, and personalized music styles that are constantly evolving through his refined writing. He unabashedly pursues the combination of compositional techniques with quintessential Chinese sound and musical stylizations. The purpose of this essay is to introduce the composer Xi Zhao and four of his unpublished songs to professional, classical singers and educators. Xi Zhao is a professor and the Chair of Music Composition at the Wuhan Conservatory of Music. The fusion of multiple music styles in Xi Zhao’s vocal works is characteristic of his compositional style. His vocal works include the addition of elements of traditional Chinese music, traditional Chinese instruments, as well as musical quotations. This essay provides a brief biography of Xi Zhao and summarizes his musical philosophies. In addition, it includes poetic and musical analysis for each of the four selected songs. Each song’s translation and the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) are provided to assist non-Chinese singers seeking to perform these songs. Further, this study aims to introduce Xi Zhao’s four Chinese contemporary songs, broaden the song catalog of living composers, and promote his body of work.