Confucius once said, "Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." This quote rings true for many people, especially those who are far away from their homeland.
For the Australian Chinese community, music plays an important role in maintaining their cultural identity and connection to their homeland. Traditional Chinese music is often played at community events and gatherings, and many Australian Chinese children learn to play traditional Chinese instruments. This helps to keep the culture alive and pass it on to future generations.
Music can also be a way for Australian Chinese immigrants to express their feelings of longing for their homeland. Traditional Chinese music often evokes feelings of nostalgia and homesickness. Listening to this music can be a way for immigrants to feel connected to their homeland and to their loved ones who are still there.
The music in this video, that I recorded for my Australian Chinese friend, is beautiful and uplifting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDXYx5waGjc
Even though I am not Chinese, I know only too well from my travels in the Royal Australian Navy, that music can be used to connect people to their heritage. After all, according to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 'Music is the universal language of mankind', and has always been an extremely important component of all cultures and religions throughout human history.
Music is a powerful tool that can be used to bring people together. It can be a source of comfort, joy, and connection. For the Australian Chinese community, music is an important part of their cultural identity and a way to stay connected to their homeland.
I would also like to add that music can be a way for Australian Chinese immigrants to share their culture with the wider Australian community. By performing traditional Chinese music, they can help to educate others about their culture and promote understanding and acceptance.
Comments