“Lan Huahua” is one of the most widely known folk songs from northern Shaanxi, composed in the style of “Xintianyou.” The reference to “daughters of the thirteen provinces” in the lyrics suggests that the song dates back to the administrative division of thirteen provinces during the Ming Dynasty. This piece, which maintains a Largo tempo throughout, tells the story of a woman named Lan Huahua, highlighting her pursuit of happiness and freedom in the context of a feudal society, and contrasting her tragic fate within the constraints of traditional matchmaking customs.
The music begins with a powerful crescendo, grounded by timpani, playing the motif A-B-A-G-A. The theme is then gently presented by woodwind instruments and saxophone, with a chilling texture that foreshadows the tragic nature of the piece. A turbulent section featuring brass and timpani symbolizes Lan Huahua’s grief and lamentation. The theme reappears with ethereal and melancholic instrumentation, and the music gradually fades away with the faint calling of the timpani, evoking a sense of lingering sorrow.(Luo Fu Work)
Double Bass