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Abstract
Hua pioneers a deep structural fusion of traditional Chinese aesthetics, centered on the philosophy of 韵味 (Yùnwèi), or resonant artistic essence, with contemporary global music practices. Moving beyond superficial hybridity, it develops rigorous approaches to embedding cyclical phrasing, modal lyricism, and heritage sensibilities within modern frameworks. Using inspiration from Mediterranean folk traditions, studying their rhythmic vitality and communal storytelling, creating dialogue between shared oral lineages. Through ethically grounded collaboration and production, the work transforms Yùnwèi into both creative compass and technical discipline: harmonizing improvisational spontaneity with contemplative depth. This methodology offers diasporic reconnection through embodied cultural memory, challenges global audiences with anti-exoticized narratives of Chinese culture, and provides musicians a blueprint for meaningful cross-cultural innovation. By treating tradition as an evolutionary continuum rather than an artifact, Hua asserts Yùnwèi as essential to the modern artistic identity, proving heritage’s capacity to catalyze forward-moving expression when rooted in integrity and intercultural respect.
Publication Date
7-1-2025
Campus
Valencia (Spain) Campus
Recommended Citation
Ma, Yuetong. “Hua: Fusing Chinese Aesthetics Into Contemporary Styles.” Master's thesis, Berklee College of Music, 2025. https://remix.berklee.edu/graduate-studies-contemporary-performance/335.