With heart and soul invested in her career, Sichuan Opera singer Shen Tiemei has pushed the declining traditional genre to a new historic high. Single handedly she has taken on the challenge to breathe new life into the centuries-old operatic genre. On Today's the List, we look at her career orbit as today's most outstanding Sichuan Opera artist.
A land nurtures its people according to its natural environment. In China, every part of the land inspires an operatic tradition, distinctive to its region.
Sichuan Opera, prevailed in its home province for centuries, giving voice to the values and cultural essence of the people.
Shen Tiemei, one of today's most accomplished Sichuan opera performers, sees an inseparable connection between opera, her identity and the identity of the people of Sichuan.
Shen said, "Sichuan Opera links to the entire province of Sichuan. The quality of Sichuan people was most evidently exposed after this year's Wenchuan earthquake. The people showed the world their solidarity, bravery, optimism and humor even though faced with disaster. These qualities are embodied and reflected in the classic works of Sichuan Opera."
Ancient totem worship and tribal beliefs played a crucial part in shaping the Sichuan Opera. During its long evolution, magic and acrobatics came to enrich performances in a way no other regional opera in China can equal.
The physical accomplishments of performers became so riveting that the role of the singer retreated and was diminished.
Shen Tiemei emerged at a critical moment as the genre sought to revive its rich vocal tradition. Endowed with a mellow voice and beautiful articulation, Shen sang her way to the pinnacle of opera.
Shen said, "I was told by some fans that they didn't enjoy Sichuan Opera but found my singing quite engaging. I think my varied training served me well. I learnt Peking Opera in my childhood. Later I learned to sing folk ballads. Peking Opera, in particular,exerted a tremendous influence in shaping my vocal qualities.
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