Shanghai Taoist music become state-level intangible cultural heritage

The State Council recently announced the list of the second batch of state-level intangible cultural heritage, and Shanghai Taoist music was among them, according to Wen Wei Po.

Taoism is one of China's indigenous religions; it has a history of nearly 2,000 years. Chinese Taoist music has a long history and is rich in repertoire. As one form of Taoist music, Shanghai Taoist music, which already has 800 years of history with glamorous tunes, gorgeous rhythm and elegant sound, has distinctive local styles and characteristics.

In recent years, Shanghai's Chenghuang Temple has been collecting, collating and exploring Shanghai Taoist music, formed the "Shanghai Chenghuang Temple Road Orchestra" and has participated in national and local concerts in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Zhangjiagang and other places. Last year, Shanghai Taoist music was not only listed among the first batch of Shanghai intangible cultural heritage, but also signed with the British record company ARC corporation to release the "Shanghai Taoist music" CD in Europe and around the world. At present, the second album in the series was being recorded; and at the invitation of the University of London, the Shanghai Chenghuang Temple Road Orchestra will soon go to the UK to participate in international Taoist music performances.

By People's Daily Online