The characteristics of traditional Chinese music are the freedom of rhythm and the blank space in the melody.

Having said that, it is the "irregularity" and "uncertainty" in ancient Chinese music that make it difficult for Chinese traditional music to form a complete theoretical system full of rational laws, making it difficult to continue and spread. The reason why Western classical music can spread all over the world.

It does not mean that they are the best and top music culture. But at least one thing we can be sure of is that after a long period of evolution and sorting out, Western classical music has formed a very rational and objective theoretical system. For example, music theory is directly related to mathematics, which is more conducive to its spread and retention.

However, the blank artistic conception in ancient Chinese music, those emotional expressions full of imagination and emotional expression, are often difficult to spread through books and teaching materials, and in many cases can only be understood. It is indescribable, let alone formed into a complete system and passed down.

But rationality in music is important, but emotional and free expression is also an indispensable part. Rational thinking is spread and admired infinitely, but it does not mean that the uncertainty and blank spaces of Eastern people are not spiritual wealth.

This is why, since the beginning of human history, Eastern and Western cultures have been attracted to each other, and each is impressed by the charm of the other's way of thinking. Today, while we admire Western rational thinking.

The significance and value of Eastern perceptual thinking should also be explored. Because these uncertain ways of thinking have also brought great inspiration and contribution to the world. As Orientals, we are even more obliged to study and truly inherit this set of spiritual wealth that is also a human treasure.

Today’s Chinese pop music is often very rigid in rhythm, but when we listen to this traditional ancient song played by Wu Man, we will find that there is no fixed and regular beat at all, and there is no way to follow the rhythm of Western music. Processed in sections. But the rhythm is all under her control, and she plays very freely.

Yes, improvisation is not exclusive to Western music. Improvisation in traditional Chinese music is also readily available. Friends who know classical music probably know John Cage's experimental piece "4 Minutes and 33 Seconds". He tried to tell everyone that blank space is also a kind of music.

But in fact, the exploration of "blank space" in Chinese music is obviously more mature. When we listen to Western music, the melody is usually always there, and it is easy for everyone to hum it. But when you listen to Wu Man's performance, you will find that the melody is intermittent.

Those blanks, vibratos, and overtones are all part of music. Such a melody is difficult to remember, but it leaves the listener with a great deal of imagination, full of Eastern subtlety and elegance.