Chinese drumming is a centuries-old form of music that is frequently accompanied by chants and choreographed movements that tell a story. There are two basic types of Chinese drumming, one for celebrations and the other for praying to the gods for good weather and plentiful crops. Yuchi, a drum-and-wind-instrument combination, is commonly played at weddings and funerals to bring good luck, fortune, or peace. Saishe is usually based on an agricultural theme and performed by an ensemble of 24 drums.
Saishe is a Japanese word that means “to be The 24 seasons depicted in the Chinese calendar, which include the main four seasons broken down into more precise descriptions of rain, temperature, and snow, are represented by Chinese drumming. Dancers are usually accompanied by drumming groups dressed in traditional garb. Choreographed dances reenact the chores and tasks that farmers perform when tending to their crops.
Drums come in a variety of styles and are used in a variety of ceremonies and performances. A bangu is a circular drum with a wooden frame secured by metal bands that is typically played by a conductor. Tanggu is a barrel drum made of bamboo sticks and animal hide that is played with wooden sticks. The lion drum is a traditional Chinese New Year instrument made of wood and goatskin that is played during the popular lion dance. This performance is intended to ward off evil spirits while also bringing good fortune.
With these simple instruments, Chinese drumming groups use one or two hands to set the tempo. Some shows include gongs and cymbals as part of the celebration. Many drums are painted red to represent power and strength, and Chinese characters are painted on them. Drummers may chant and dance while drumming, and they usually wear brightly colored costumes.
Drums were first used in China during the Shang Dynasty, which ruled between the sixth and eleventh centuries. A tortoise shell discovered near an old riverbank had the drum symbol etched into it. Animal skins were attached to ancient drums made from hollowed tree trunks and clay.
During the war, Chinese drumming served an important purpose. To help boost morale, drums formed a marching rhythm for the troops. They also developed a means of communication and may have frightened off potential adversaries.
Modern Chinese drumming performances can be loud and raucous, with war chants interspersed to tell a story about past battles. Theatrical synchronized movements may also be used in performances centered on mythical themes. Chinese drumming is used to represent a variety of aspects of Chinese life and history through intricate footwork and body movement.