Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Exploring the Feasibility of Applying the Yangqin in Chinese Pentatonic Music Therapy: A Case Study of The Lament of Zhaojun

Jingyi ChenChina Conservatory of Music*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The five-tone therapy in traditional Chinese medicine is a common application in music therapy, but current academic research mainly emphasizes the passive performance of existing pieces, often in forms such as band collaborations or guqin versions. There is a lack of exploration of flexible improvisation, ensemble cooperation, and diverse musical styles, especially study in yangqin solo music in therapy. With the development of music therapy, traditional Chinese pentatonic music has draw increasing attention, and the repertoire used in therapy is mostly performed with traditional instruments. As a traditional Chinese national instrument, the yangqin, renowned for its rich techniques and distinct regional styles, can play different traditional pentatonic sounds, which are indispensable in music therapy. The Lament of Zhaojun, a representative work of Guangdong music, has had a profound influence. And the yangqin, as an indispensable instrument of Guangdong music, also plays an important role. This paper takes The Lament of Zhaojun as an example to analyze the therapeutic effects of the yangqin version of traditional Chinese music. By using qualitative analysis, musical form analysis and performance analysis, this study seeks to explore the positive mobilization and good therapeutic effects of the yangqin in the five Elements music therapy on human physiological functions.

Keywords: Music therapy; Yangqin; The Lament of Zhaojun; Traditional Chinese music
Published: October 23, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.BJ28488
Volume: CHR Vol.79
pp. 20-27
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