The Modern Cultural Function of Chinese Traditional Religious Orchestra: The Daxiangguo Temple Buddhist Orchestra (DTBO) of China
Abstract
The Daxiangguo Temple, located in Kaifeng City, Henan Province, China, is prominent in the ancient capital of the Seven Dynasties. Due to its status as a royal temple, the Buddhist orchestra associated with it has a long history and profound cultural heritage, having been involved in numerous imperial events. Since its reconstruction in July 2002, the Daxiangguo Temple Buddhist Orchestra (DTBO) has gained recognition as a second-batch national intangible cultural heritage project in 2007. This study is based on the existing literature, and employs ethnographic narration, and interviews with relevant managers and musician monks to investigate the operational and management modes of the DTBO. By examining the DTBO's activities and performances over the past 20 years, the research explores the adjustments made in cultural inheritance and development to align with modern societal needs following its recognition as a national intangible cultural heritage project. The findings indicate that DBO significantly contributes to the preservation of traditional Chinese religious music, alongside sustaining associated beliefs and ethical frameworks within contemporary society. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in enhancing the local tourism economy while fostering a strong sense of cultural identity and belonging among the people of the Central Plains.
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