The Guqin is a seven stringed zither and is most likely China's oldest musical instrument. Now, for the first time, this ancient instrument is being celebrated at an arts festival in Changshu, East China's Jiangsu Province. The event coincides with the second half of the May Day holiday, so more people can take part in this unique festival.
The first Guqin Arts Festival opened in Changshu, a riverside town in the south of Jiangsu province, on May 3. In the opening ceremony, the special sound of the Guqin accompanied dancing, singing and demonstrations of calligraphy and painting. The Guqin has long been a symbol of high Chinese culture.
Dozens of Guqin virtuosos from China and overseas performed Guqin pieces, attracting new audiences to the music.
The Guqin emerged in the Zhou Dynasty nearly 3,000 years ago, and in 2003 was registered on UNESCO's intangible heritage list. Changshu was recognized as the hometown of the Guqin in 2004 and a 400-year-old Yushan School specializes in the style of local Guqin players.
The Guqin Arts Festival includes Guqin playing competitions, an instrument exhibition, a concert by Guqin masters and a forum on protecting the ancient art. The event ran until May 7.
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