Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

2-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

D.M.A.

Program

Music

Advisor

Stephanie Jensen-Moulton

Committee Members

Chen Yi

Norman Carey

Malcolm Merriweather

Subject Categories

Composition | Musicology | Music Performance | Music Practice | Music Theory | Other Languages, Societies, and Cultures

Keywords

Mandarin Chinese diction, Chinese-American art songs, Chinese opera singing, Chinese Tone Contour, Chen Yi, Yuen Ren Chao

Abstract

This dissertation presents a comprehensive guide to Mandarin Chinese diction and articulation, rooted in traditional Chinese phonology and articulated through Fixed-International Phonetic Alphabet (Fixed-IPA). It unfolds in two primary segments, with the initial section delving into the historical underpinnings and phonetic nuances of traditional Chinese opera singing. This inquiry not only systematically introduces Chinese pronunciation rules but also illuminates the influence of traditional Chinese opera elements on contemporary Chinese art songs and operas. This part also reflects upon the significant strides made in Chinese language Romanization since the Wade-Giles system's introduction in the 19th century, discussing how it facilitated literacy and cultural development within China. In conjunction with Hanyu Pinyin, this work utilizes the International Phonetic Alphabet as a tool for pronunciation accuracy, critical for the effective performance of Chinese art songs.

The second segment traverses the evolution of Chinese-American art songs, analyzing the intricacies of singing techniques and pronunciation, and confronting the stylistic challenges intrinsic to the genre. This segment provides a concrete IPA, Pronunciation & Tone Guide, elucidating Mandarin Chinese diction and analysis specific songs for practical application. The dissertation extends beyond mere linguistic analysis to propose methods for applying appropriate melismatic and ornamental nuances to Chinese-style compositions, honoring the tone contour of the language which richly informs the musicality of the art form.

Engaging with the scholarship of pioneers like Professor Chou Wen-chung and composers who sought fusion between Eastern and Western musical traditions, the dissertation explores how composers like Zhou Long and Chen Yi have integrated Chinese musical elements using 20th-century techniques. It also draws from personal teaching experiences to offer precise diction methodologies that enable performers to authentically convey the essence of Chinese vocal compositions.

In addressing the gap in performance diction scholarship, particularly within the Chinese language, this research provides an extensive and critical analysis, offering a novel perspective on the performance of Chinese art songs. The dissertation culminates in a methodological approach that interlaces modern pinyin systems with traditional phonological concepts, serving as an indispensable resource for singers and educators alike in mastering the art of Chinese song.

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