This period covers the music from its earliest origins to the end of the Qin Dynasty. It is characterized by the use of simple instruments, such as the xiao (a bamboo flute), the se (a zither), and the gu (a drum). Music was used for religious ceremonies, court entertainment, and military purposes.
Medieval Music Period (Qin Dynasty – 960 AD)
This period saw the development of more sophisticated instruments and musical forms. The pipa (a lute), the zheng (a zither), and the huqin (a bowed string instrument) were introduced from Central Asia. Music was still used for religious ceremonies and court entertainment, but it also began to be performed in theaters and teahouses.
Modern Music Period (960 AD – present)
This period saw the continued development of Chinese music, with the emergence of new genres and styles. Opera, instrumental music, and folk music all flourished during this time. Chinese music also began to be influenced by Western music, leading to the development of new forms of fusion music.