Chapter 162 Visiting the Forbidden City
Chapter 162 Visiting the Forbidden City
Shen Yan was dressed in a simple yet dignified outfit, holding materials carefully prepared by the production team in his hand, with a friendly smile on his face.
Soon, the composers arrived one after another. They were all in high spirits, and although each of them had a different style, they were all full of anticipation for this special recording.
Seeing that all the composers had arrived, Shen Yan stepped forward and greeted them warmly: "Happy New Year, everyone! Welcome to the Forbidden City to participate in the recording of this episode of 'I Am a Composer'."
This palace carries a rich history. Based on the central axis of Kyoto, it was meticulously constructed according to the concept of harmony between man and nature, showcasing the supreme imperial power.
Originally built in the Ming Dynasty, it served as the imperial palace for twenty-four emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, standing for a full six hundred years. The palace is vast in scale, with more than 8,700 rooms inside.
For six hundred years, it has stood quietly on the land surrounding the capital, witnessing countless glories and vicissitudes. Despite the trials and tribulations, it still exudes a unique charm and bears witness to the rise and fall of history.
Today, we will seek inspiration in this ancient palace to create a unique song for the Forbidden City. We hope everyone will find something of value and create excellent works.” The crowd responded enthusiastically, their faces beaming with excitement.
Led by Shen Yan, the composers entered through the Meridian Gate. Stepping into the Forbidden City felt like an instant journey back to ancient times.
The towering red walls, golden glazed tiles, and majestic palaces all exude imperial grandeur and solemnity. Sunlight spills onto the ground, casting golden rays that complement the ancient architecture, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
"Look, everyone, this is the Meridian Gate." Shen Yan pointed to the building in front of them and introduced it to everyone. "The Meridian Gate is the main gate of the Forbidden City. Its architectural style is unique and magnificent. In ancient times, it was a place for important ceremonies, such as when the emperor issued edicts or when soldiers went to war. It can be said that the Meridian Gate has witnessed countless historical moments."
The composers all looked up and carefully observed every detail of the Meridian Gate. Some even took out their phones to take pictures, wanting to record the awe-inspiring moment.
Following the central axis, the group arrived at the Hall of Supreme Harmony. The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the largest and most magnificent palace in the Forbidden City, and it was also the place where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held important ceremonies.
Inside the hall, the golden dragon throne sits high above, surrounded by exquisite dragon pillars and magnificent decorations, making one marvel at the superb craftsmanship of the ancient artisans.
"This Hall of Supreme Harmony is the essence of the Forbidden City," Shen Yan continued, "its architectural craftsmanship and decorative art have reached an extremely high level."
Standing here, can you feel the overwhelming sense of imperial grandeur and historical weight?
Luo Li stood before the Hall of Supreme Harmony, gazing silently at the ancient building. Images flashed through her mind: an ancient emperor in a dragon robe, seated on his throne, receiving the homage of his officials; a grand celebration, with drums and music resounding, incense smoke swirling, and the entire palace immersed in a solemn and dignified atmosphere.
These images constantly intertwined and collided in his mind, stimulating the creative inspiration deep within him. She closed her eyes, carefully sensing everything around her, trying to capture that fleeting melody.
After leaving the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the group visited the Hall of Central Harmony, the Hall of Preserving Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility in turn.
Each palace has its own unique historical background and cultural connotation. They are like vivid history books, telling people stories of the past.
During the visit, Shen Yan gave a detailed introduction to the purpose, architectural features, and related historical events of each palace.
The composers listened with great interest, occasionally raising questions and exchanging ideas with Shen Yan.
Before they knew it, the group had arrived at the Imperial Garden. The Imperial Garden is a royal garden within the Forbidden City, with lush trees, abundant flowers and plants, and pavilions and towers arranged in a harmonious and orderly manner.
Everything here is full of life and vitality, forming a stark contrast to the solemn and majestic palace in front.
"The Imperial Garden was a place for the emperor and his consorts to relax and enjoy themselves," Shen Yan explained. "Here, they could appreciate the beauty of the four seasons and relax their minds and bodies. As you can see, this Duixiu Mountain is the highest point in the Imperial Garden. From the top of the mountain, you can overlook the entire Imperial Garden."
The composers strolled through the Imperial Garden, appreciating its tranquility and beauty. They paused to admire the blooming flowers or shared their feelings and thoughts with their companions.
Time flies, and the day's visit is coming to an end. Shen Yan gathered everyone together and said, "That concludes today's visit. I believe everyone has gained a deeper understanding of the Forbidden City and received a lot of inspiration."
Over the next few days, please create a song for the Forbidden City based on what you have seen and heard today. We look forward to your wonderful works! Everyone nodded, indicating that they would do their best.
After leaving the Forbidden City, Luo Li returned to her hotel, her mind still replaying the grandeur and vicissitudes of the palace. She eagerly spread out her papers and began to compose the promotional song she had written for the Forbidden City in her previous life.
The melody was beautiful and melodious, filled with deep affection for the Forbidden City. She firmly believed that there had never been a work in the world that could compare to it.
When Luo Li arrived at the program with her work, the other composers had also finished their compositions. They sat together, sharing their works and exchanging creative insights and experiences.
Each piece has its own unique style and characteristics. Some are grand and majestic, showcasing the magnificence of the Forbidden City; some are gentle and delicate, depicting the tenderness of the Forbidden City and the vicissitudes of history; and some are full of modernity, cleverly blending the ancient Forbidden City with modern musical elements.
After listening to everyone's work, Luo Li felt even more confident in her own.
He realized that everyone's understanding and feelings about the Forbidden City are different, and music is the best way to express these understandings and feelings.
He believes that in the upcoming competition, these creative and talented works will surely spark even more brilliant ideas and bring the audience a wonderful musical feast.
She will also do her best to present a unique gift to the Palace Museum with her music, allowing more people to feel the charm and historical flavor of the Palace Museum through music.
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