Types of singing in China: history and modernity of vocal culture

This study aims to explore the historical evolution and modernity of Chinese vocal music culture, focusing on comparing the differences and connections between traditional and modern vocal music in terms of singing style and technique, musical structure and composition, themes and cultural connotations, and performance forms and stage performances. First, the origin and development of Chinese vocal music is reviewed, and the characteristics of traditional vocal music, including forms of operatic vocal music (e.g., Peking Opera and Chinese Opera), folk songs and local operas, and their unique singing and expression techniques are analyzed in depth. This is followed by a discussion of the diversity and innovation of contemporary Chinese vocal music, an examination of vocal expression in contemporary popular music such as pop songs and rock music, and an analysis of the stylistic and expressive characteristics of contemporary vocal performers. Then, the relationship and interaction between traditional and contemporary vocal music is revealed by comparing the similarities and differences between traditional and contemporary vocal music in terms of singing style and technique, musical structure and composition, themes and cultural connotations, as well as performance form and stage presentation. Finally, the final section summarizes the main results of the study, formulates perspectives and suggestions for future vocal music research, and emphasizes the importance of cultural inheritance and innovation of vocal music across time and space. The purpose of this study is to provide a theoretical basis and research perspective for further in-depth study of the historical heritage and contemporary development of Chinese vocal music culture.