Core Viewpoint - Music played a significant role in the Chinese people's resistance during the Anti-Japanese War, with melodies that resonate across time, as highlighted in a recent anti-war themed music ideological class held at the former site of the Suzhou Independent Branch of the Communist Party of China [1][2] Group 1: Historical Significance - The year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Anti-Japanese War and the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Suzhou Independent Branch of the Communist Party [1] - The music ideological class featured three chapters: "Fires of War - The National Backbone in Melodies," "Indelible Sound - Artistic Perseverance in War," and "Echoes of the Times - Contemporary Inheritance of Anti-War Music," aimed at helping the audience remember the red classics and the history of the war [1] Group 2: Contributions of Zhang Dinghe - Zhang Dinghe, born in 1916, is a renowned composer who created over 100 popular patriotic songs during the war, and he received the Lifetime Honor Award of the China Music "Golden Bell" [2] - In 1995, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the victory in the Anti-Japanese War, Zhang compiled and published a collection of nine anti-war songs titled "The Distant Sound of Music" [2] - The collection is preserved at the Suzhou Independent Branch site and includes songs like "Dream of Jiangnan" and "Song of Exile," which were featured in the 2015 collection for the 70th anniversary of the war [2] Group 3: Educational and Cultural Impact - Anti-war music serves not only as an art form but also as a carrier of emotions, beliefs, and spirit, providing a rich spiritual legacy for future music education, artistic creation, and cultural transmission [2] - The performance of songs during the ideological class, accompanied by piano, emphasized the historical role and contemporary value of anti-war music [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of composer Ren Guang to anti-Japanese war music and his role in promoting patriotic songs during a tumultuous period in Chinese history [2][3][4][5][6][7]. Group 1: Contributions to Music - Ren Guang was instrumental in the recording and dissemination of numerous progressive songs during the anti-Japanese war, including "The Road Song" and "The Song of the Iron Tread" [3]. - He played a crucial role in the recording of "March of the Volunteers," overcoming initial resistance from foreign owners of the recording company [3]. - Ren Guang's music combined elements of folk traditions with Western influences, creating a unique sound that resonated with the public [4]. Group 2: Artistic Philosophy - Ren Guang believed that music should be rooted in the folk tradition and aimed to create songs that were accessible and relatable to the masses [4]. - He emphasized the unity of music and lyrics in songwriting, advocating for music that truly reflected the people's sentiments [4]. - His approach to film music set a standard in China, as he sought to create a symbiotic relationship between music and visual storytelling [6]. Group 3: Legacy and Impact - Ren Guang's work, including the opera "Tai'erzhuang," marked significant milestones in the development of Chinese music during the war [5]. - His film music, particularly the theme song for "Fisherman's Song," achieved widespread acclaim and influenced the future of film scoring in China [5][6]. - The article concludes that Ren Guang's life and work exemplified a deep commitment to both national identity and artistic integrity, leaving a lasting legacy in Chinese music [7].

Core Points - The article highlights the enduring friendship between Chinese musician Xian Xinghai and Kazakh musician Baikadamov, emphasizing their bond that transcends borders and time [1][3][9] - It commemorates the 120th anniversary of Xian Xinghai's birth and reflects on the cultural exchange and cooperation between China and Kazakhstan [1][5][8] Group 1: Historical Context - Xian Xinghai and Baikadamov met in Almaty during World War II, where Baikadamov offered Xian shelter and support during difficult times [2][3] - The two musicians collaborated on various works, with Xian creating significant pieces like "The Epic of Amanzhol" and "Yellow River Cantata," which resonated with the local populace [4][6] Group 2: Cultural Significance - The friendship is portrayed as a symbol of Sino-Kazakh relations and a model of people-to-people diplomacy, with Baikadamov's family continuing to honor Xian's wishes [3][9] - The article discusses the impact of Xian's music on both nations, highlighting how his works reflect the struggles and aspirations of the people [6][9] Group 3: Legacy and Future - Baikadamov's daughter, Baderkan Baikadamova, is committed to preserving this legacy, planning to donate valuable items related to Xian and promote cultural exchanges [9][10] - The article concludes with a call for future generations to understand and continue this friendship, emphasizing the importance of cultural memory [9][10]