An Infusion of Eastern and Western Music Styles into Art Song

This research book introduces two sets of her art songs written for mezzo-soprano voice, reviewing the features of these compositions that represent the unique style of her music, which is influenced by Chinese folk music idioms and Western modern music elements. It is anticipated that research into the compositional values of Chen’s vocal works and promotion of her art songs will spark new exploration of contemporary women composers’ works. By offering musical analyses and performing strategies on Chen’s art songs, a new variety of contemporary vocal repertoire for mezzo-soprano voice will become available to professional singers, singing students, and voice teachers for their further studies. Therefore, many of these individuals will make renewed contributions to continuing the tradition of art song and developing its artistry through their performing and teaching practices.