Asian music

The best of Asia

Music and Spirituality

The value of music goes beyond the accompanying rituals. For example, to harmonize the energy of the universe and the internal forces of each individual. Therefore, a state of mind predisposed to appreciate the spiritual enjoyment oriental music will be necessary, in addition to wide open ears to new sounds.

An Ancient Tradition
In Asia there are very different musical expressions. However, have in common their relationship with spirituality. Much of the eastern musical forms are based on sacred texts, and many of the Eastern religions attach great importance to the music for the balance of the human being. Asia will divide into four major areas:

Eastern Asia
Where to find China, Japan, and Tibet. They share the pentatonic scale and some instruments.

Southern Asia
Where to find India. Hinduism and Islam influence their musical expressions.

Southeast Asia
We found Indochina, comprises very diverse musical contradictions. The metal gongs and chimes are characteristic of this area.

Near or Middle East Asia

Includes Western Asia, and are also marked by Islam.

Main features of Asian music

1. Importance of melody, is the basic element of Eastern music. 2. Characteristic vocal timbres, the techniques of voice output are different, eg, the very sharp edge of the nasal Chinese music and bass and grunts of Tibetan monks. 3. Predominantly improvisation, no scores are read rather use memory and improvisation using (melodic and rhythmic) patterns on which made variations.

Music in China
The power was attributed to the music made be considered as an essential weapon in the balance of influence humans. Confucius said that it was possible to maintain order and morals in society through music. Chinese instruments are classified according to the material they are made. In China the essential pentatonic scale:

Music in Japan
Linked to the spiritual quest that is manifested through rituals where the ultimate goal is to put off the I to find harmony with the universe and society. Other constants are ease to simulate external cultural influences and the ability to combine the old and the modern. Older scores are written for the BIWA lute.

It is one of the national symbols of Japan was imported from China 1300 years ago. For many years professionally only allowed to touch the blind. Playing the koto was proof of refinement in women.

A national symbol (The koto)

Music in India
The sound is as philosophical principle. In India the sound vibration had a connection with the spiritual. According to belief everything vibrates, and thus sounds. To perceive these vibrations are resorted to techniques like yoga. Hindu religious texts were transmitted through the sung word, he acquired enormous power. Traditional Indian dance has a high symbolic content.