“One in four residents can play at least one traditional musical instrument.” Imagine the harmonious sounds of Shanyang. This town in Shanghai’s Jinshan District is more than just a place on a map. It is a vibrant hub of folk music and cultural heritage.
Shanyang has a rich history. The town has made special efforts to promote its traditional music. Instruments like bamboo flutes, zithers, lutes, horns, and gongs fill the air. Shanyang was honored as a national “town of Chinese folk arts” by the Ministry of Culture. It’s a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its musical traditions.
Town officials proudly say that one in four residents can play a traditional instrument. Think about that for a moment. Almost everyone you meet here could strike up a tune. Music is woven into the very fabric of Shanyang.
Over five years, Shanyang has staged more than 100 folk music programs. These events attracted over 6,000 spectators. Sixteen amateur bands regularly give free performances during holidays and festivals. Shanyang truly embraces its identity as a town of music.
Folk music education is even an elective in public schools. This ensures that the traditions are passed down to future generations. The children of Shanyang are growing up immersed in their cultural heritage.
Shanyang’s folk music has won many awards over the years. In the 1980s, “Little Boat’s Stern” and “The Dragon” were applauded at the Shanghai Spring Concert. In the 1990s, Shanyang’s top folk music group won three first prizes at the Asian Yangko Festival in Japan.
Since 2000, the ensemble has performed as a special guest. They have been part of the Yangtze River Delta Region Folk Music Festival. Their performance of “Surrounded on All Sides” features 70 musicians. It has been staged many times at the Shanghai Grand Theater and the Shanghai Concert Hall. Shanyang’s musical talent has reached far beyond its borders.
Shanyang is also a key area for the development of Jinshan’s new urban area. It is a modern, ecological, and intelligent town. Wu Bangguo, then Secretary of Shanghai municipal Party committee, hailed it as the “golden pearl”. He did so for its unique geographical advantages and remarkable development achievements.
In 2018, Shanyang was reconfirmed as a national health county or township. The town has a rich cultural heritage. It enjoys the reputation of “cultural town” in the suburbs of Shanghai. The cultural influence of folk music, dragon boat, gongs, and drums is expanding day by day. Shanyang is a town where tradition and progress go hand in hand.
As you explore Shanyang, listen closely. You might just hear the enchanting melodies that define this unique town. It is a place where music is not just an art form. It is a way of life.