The China National Anthem, also known as the “March of the Volunteers,” has been an integral part of the country’s identity since its inception. China, the land of the Red Dragon, is a country that is steeped in history and culture. Hence the importance of its national anthem. One of the most prominent symbols of this culture is the national anthem. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, lyrics, and significance of the Chinese national anthem, along with some frequently asked questions about it.
A Brief History of the Chinese National Anthem
The Chinese national anthem, also known as “March of the Volunteers,” was originally composed in 1935 as a theme song for a war movie called “Sons and Daughters in a Time of Storm.” The lyrics were written by poet and playwright Tian Han, while the music was composed by Nie Er. It was later adopted as the official national anthem in 1949, following the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The Lyrics of the Chinese National Anthem
The lyrics of the Chinese national anthem are an ode to the bravery and sacrifice of the Chinese people in their fight against imperialism and foreign aggression. The opening lines of the anthem are as follows:
Arise, ye who refuse to be slaves!
With our very flesh and blood,
Let us build our new Great Wall!
The peoples of China are in the most critical time,
Everybody must roar his defiance.
The rest of the anthem continues in a similar vein, exhorting the Chinese people to rise up and defend their homeland against all threats.
Significance of the Chinese National Anthem
The Chinese national anthem is a symbol of the country’s national pride and unity. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of the Chinese people throughout history, and their unwavering commitment to defending their homeland against all threats. The anthem is played on many national occasions, including the National Day of the People’s Republic of China, as well as at international events such as the Olympic Games.
The Evolution of the Chinese National Anthem
Over the years, the Chinese national anthem has undergone several revisions and modifications. In 1978, the anthem was officially standardized, with minor changes made to the lyrics and melody. In 2004, the government made further revisions to the anthem, changing some of the lyrics and making the melody more upbeat.
Controversies Surrounding the Chinese National Anthem
Despite its widespread popularity, the Chinese national anthem has also been the subject of controversy over the years. One of the most significant controversies arose in 2017, when the Hong Kong government proposed a law that would require all schools to teach their students how to sing the Chinese national anthem. The proposal was met with widespread protests, with many people viewing it as an attempt to impose mainland Chinese values on Hong Kong.
How to Sing the Chinese National Anthem
The Chinese national anthem is a challenging song to sing, with its soaring melodies and complex lyrics. If you want to learn how to sing the anthem, there are several tips that can help:
- Listen to the melody of the song and practice humming along with it until you get comfortable with the tune.
- Break down the lyrics into smaller sections and practice singing each section individually before putting the entire song together.
- Pay close attention to the pronunciation of the Chinese words, as this can affect the overall sound of the anthem.
- Sing with emotion and passion, as the anthem is meant to inspire and unite the Chinese people.
The Chinese National Anthem in Popular Culture
The Chinese national anthem has also found its way into popular culture, with many artists incorporating it into their music or performances. For example, in the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, singer Lin Miaoke performed the anthem while lip-syncing to a recording by another girl who was deemed more suitable for the role.
The Chinese National Anthem in Education
In China, the national anthem is a vital part of the country’s education system. Students are required to learn how to sing the anthem and are expected to show respect for it at all times.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chinese national anthem is a symbol of the country’s national pride and unity. Its lyrics and melody inspire the Chinese people to defend their homeland against all threats, and it is played on many national occasions and international events. Although it has been the subject of controversy at times, the anthem remains an essential part of China’s culture and identity.
FAQs
- What is the meaning behind the lyrics of the Chinese national anthem?
The lyrics of the Chinese national anthem are an ode to the bravery and sacrifice of the Chinese people in their fight against imperialism and foreign aggression.
- When was the Chinese national anthem first composed?
The Chinese national anthem was first composed in 1935 as a theme song for a war movie called “Sons and Daughters in a Time of Storm.”
- How has the Chinese national anthem evolved over the years?
The Chinese national anthem has undergone several revisions and modifications over the years, with changes made to the lyrics and melody.
- Why was there controversy surrounding the Chinese national anthem in Hong Kong?
In 2017, the Hong Kong government proposed a law that would require all schools to teach their students how to sing the Chinese national anthem. The proposal was met with widespread protests, with many people viewing it as an attempt to impose mainland Chinese values on Hong Kong.
- Is it difficult to sing the Chinese national anthem?
Yes, the Chinese national anthem is a challenging song to sing due to its soaring melodies and complex lyrics. However, with practice and dedication, anyone can learn to sing it.
References
- China Daily. (2019, September 30). Guide to China’s national anthem. China Daily. https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201909/30/WS5d91d317a310cf3e3556dbca.html
- Wong, E. (2017, November 8). Hong Kong’s anthem law, a throwback to colonial times, draws protests. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/08/world/asia/hong-kong-china-national-anthem.html
- Xu, X. (2015). The Cultural Significance of the Chinese National Anthem: A Historical and Social Perspective. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, 5(2), 10-19.