DEVELOPMENT OF CLARINET AND CLARINET ENSEMBLE IN CHINA

Abstract

The development of the clarinet in China is deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs, religious influences, and historical transitions. Initially introduced by Western missionaries during the Qing Dynasty, the clarinet, referred to as the "Western Xiao," symbolized early cross-cultural exchanges facilitated by religious outreach. With the expansion of Western orchestras in China during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the clarinet became a tool of both musical and ideological transformation, reflecting the broader impact of Westernization on Chinese music education and performance. Following the founding of the People's Republic of China, government-led cultural policies emphasized the integration of Western instruments into Chinese music institutions, further embedding the clarinet within a nationalistic framework that sought to balance modernization with traditional values. In contemporary China, the clarinet’s presence in ensembles, compositions, and education reflects an evolving musical identity that harmonizes global influences with indigenous cultural elements. This article explores how the clarinet’s development in China has been shaped by religious encounters, cultural adaptation, and the shifting landscape of musical expression, illustrating the broader dynamics of belief systems and artistic transformation in Chinese society. This article presented (1) development of clarinet, and (2) clarinet ensemble in China.