In the heart of tradition: Yangzhou's time-honored folk music

Yangzhou, in East China's Jiangsu province, is situated at the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Various cultures converge in this prosperous ancient city, nurturing various types of opera genres with local characteristics.

Yangzhou Ditty (Chinese: 扬州清曲)

Yangzhou Ditty, featuring accompaniment from sizhu (traditional stringed and woodwind instruments) and precise enunciation, has been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item since 2006. Originating during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), it has become one of the most representative operas of Yangzhou.

Xichun Pavilion, a renowned Yangzhou Ditty performance venue on the west bank of Slender West Lake. According to legend, it is believed to be the location where salt merchants in Yangzhou celebrated birthdays of emperors during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Yangzhou Opera (Chinese: 扬剧)

Based on Huaguxi Opera (flower-drum opera) and Xianghuo Opera, Yangzhou Opera was born about 100 years ago and has since been appreciated by both the refined and the popular. In the city, the captivating Yangzhou Opera performances are staged at Yangzhou Opera Culture Park almost every week, drawing in residents to immerse themselves in its timeless allure.

A performance of Yangzhou Opera by artists from the Yangju Opera Institute of Yangzhou at the Yangzhou Opera Culture Park. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Yangzhou Xiaodiao (Chinese: 扬州小调)

Xiaodiao literally means "small tunes". Originated from ancient Yangzhou folk songs, Yangzhou Xiaodiao is characterized by a fixed melody and lyrics, orderly structure, and melodious tunes. One of the most famous xiaodiao is Flower Tune, which is the precursor of Jiangsu's most famous folk song, Jasmine Flower.

Jasmine Flower performed at Yangzhou Grand Canal Theatre. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]