A Case Study of the Singing Technique of “Shanqu Song of Shanxi Folksong” by Shi Zhanming

บทคัดย่อ

This research consists purposes were 1. to investigate the current status of Shanqu in contemporary society and 2. to analyze the singing techniques of Shanqu as demonstrated by Shi Zhanming. This qualitative case study investigates the current status of Shanqu in contemporary society and examines the singing techniques of Shanqu as demonstrated by Shi Zhanming. Data were collected through documentary research, field investigation, semi-structured interviews, performance observation and analysis of selected performances, particularly Gaoshan Shang Yi Lou You. Qualitative thematic analysis and performance-based interpretation were used to analyze the data. The findings show that Shanqu transmission has shifted from oral, community-based practice to a hybrid model supported by schools, cultural institutions, heritage programs, festivals and digital media. Although traditional transmission has weakened because of aging tradition bearers, declining dialect use and changing audience participation, Shanqu retains its cultural identity through dialect, vocal style, melodic features and regional memory. Shi Zhanming’s singing technique consists of six interrelated components: vocal production and resonance, breath control, pitch accuracy and register coordination, diction and expressive delivery, emotional expression and vocal ornamentation and falsetto–modal voice transition. Together, these elements form an integrated vocal system that preserves the bright, resonant and expressive qualities of Shanqu while adapting them to contemporary performance and pedagogy. The study concludes that Shanqu sustainability depends not only on preservation policies and documentation but also on the continued transmission of performance practice. Shi Zhanming’s vocal technique demonstrates how traditional singing can maintain and pass on regional folk-song culture in the present era.