The Musical Meaning of the Sound of Henan Opera

Abstract

Does music inherently possess meaning? How does musical meaning manifest in Henan Opera? This paper explores the musical meaning of Henan Opera, focusing on its sound and the aesthetic implications of its performance. Drawing on Mikel Dufrenne’s assertion in his analysis of Johann Sebastian Bach that music holds an intrinsic meaning, this study investigates how Henan Opera similarly projects meaning through sound. Without meaningful interpretation, music risks becoming a series of chaotic sounds. Henan Opera, deeply rooted in the culture of the Henan people, has maintained its popularity for over a century despite its differences from more refined forms like Kunqu or Peking Opera. This paper establishes a research framework examining the musical meaning of Henan Opera from the perspectives of subjectivity, objectivity, and aesthetics. The study’s significance lies in its contribution to music aesthetics, providing a deeper understanding of Henan Opera’s essential role in cultural preservation.