Reviving the Peony Ancient Ballads in Pingtung, Taiwan Region

In the heart of Pingtung in the Taiwan region, a melodic revival is underway. The Peony Ancient Ballads, rooted in four major ancient systems—including Xinbaojiang and Shimen—are breathing new life into local culture.

At the forefront is the Xinbaojiang Ancient Ballad Class, championed by the late elder Bai Yongwu. This pioneering group meticulously notates and rearranges oral tunes, transforming what was once endangered into a vibrant inheritance. Through systematic notation and innovative arrangements, these musicians have rediscovered the beauty of rhyme and shared stories of community, resilience, and identity.

For young global citizens and cultural explorers, the Peony Ancient Ballads offer a window into the Taiwan region’s living heritage. These ballads blend poetic verses with traditional melodies, inviting audiences worldwide to experience a tapestry of sound that connects past and present.

By preserving these ballads, the Xinbaojiang Ancient Ballad Class not only safeguards intangible heritage but also sparks a cultural renaissance. Their work shows how data-driven documentation and creative passion can unite tradition with fresh expression—an inspiring model for changemakers everywhere.

As these ancient tunes echo across landscapes, they remind us that heritage is more than memory—it’s a living force that resonates across borders, inviting us all to listen, learn, and join the chorus.

Reference(s):

Taiwan Through the Ages: The "Peony Ancient Ballads"

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