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[1:05] Analysis of Ancient Musical Instrument Culture in History and Literature

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This article explores the culture of ancient musical instruments in history and literature, discussing their origins, development, social impact, and literary references. It also serves as material for English listening practice.

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Originally named after the low-quot fruit, the earliest people known was found to have been made in the Chene dynasty. The origins of this musical tradition date back centuries, and it holds a significant place in history for its unique development. Archaeologists have discovered remnants and records that suggest how the instrument or performance was first conceptualized, offering insights into the cultural practices of the time.

By the other 10 dynasty, the people had reached its summit. The instrument had evolved to a level of mastery and sophistication that amazed both common folk and scholars. Throughout these years, techniques were refined, and performances became more complex, indicating a peak period in musical craftsmanship and cultural appreciation.

It was loved by everyone from the royal court to the common folk. Its appeal transcended social classes, demonstrating the unifying power of music. Royals would host grand performances while townspeople also cherished local renditions, showing that this art form had permeated all levels of society and daily life.

Many well-known writers and poets created poems and mentioned it in their works. Literature of the period frequently references the instrument, highlighting its influence on creative expression. This inclusion in literary works underlines the importance of music in shaping artistic and emotional experiences for both creators and audiences.

By J.E., the master poet, vividly described the performance like this. Rapid and soft notes mingled were just like big and small pearls dropping onto the jade plates. Such descriptive imagery captures the essence and delicacy of the music, reflecting not only technical skill but also the aesthetic sensibilities of the period.

These are the listening materials for daily beginner English readings compiled by Xiao Wu from qicai website. We hope you gain some benefit from listening!

Listening Comprehension

performance
noun
1. any recognized accomplishment
e.g. they admired his performance under stress
when Roger Maris powered four home runs in one game his performance merits awe
2. the act of performing
of doing something successfully
using knowledge as distinguished from merely possessing it
e.g. they criticised his performance as mayor
experience generally improves performance
Synonym: executioncarrying outcarrying into action
3. the act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment
e.g. we congratulated him on his performance at the rehearsal
an inspired performance of Mozart's C minor concerto
4. a dramatic or musical entertainment
e.g. they listened to ten different performances
the play ran for 100 performances
the frequent performances of the symphony testify to its popularity
Synonym: public presentation
5. process or manner of functioning or operating
e.g. the power of its engine determines its operation
the plane's operation in high winds
they compared the cooking performance of each oven
the jet's performance conformed to high standards
Synonym: operationfunctioning
royal
noun
1. stag with antlers of 12 or more branches
Synonym: royal stag
2. a sail set next above the topgallant on a royal mast
summit
noun
1. a meeting of heads of governments
Synonym: summit meeting
2. the top or extreme point of something (usually a mountain or hill)
e.g. the view from the peak was magnificent
they clambered to the tip of Monadnock
the region is a few molecules wide at the summit
Synonym: peakcrowncresttoptip
3. the highest level or degree attainable
the highest stage of development
e.g. his landscapes were deemed the acme of beauty
the artist's gifts are at their acme
at the height of her career
the peak of perfection
summer was at its peak
...catapulted Einstein to the pinnacle of fame
the summit of his ambition
so many highest superlatives achieved by man
at the top of his profession
Synonym: acmeheightelevationpeakpinnaclesuperlativemeridiantiptoptop