The Integration of Traditional Opera and Folk Songs in Chinese National Opera —A Case Study of The White-Haired Girl

The creation of the grand opera The White-Haired Girl represents a significant milestone in the evolution of modern Chinese national opera. This seminal work has profoundly influenced both contemporary Chinese vocal music and the advancement of national opera. This study examines The White-Haired Girl through the lens of folk songs and operatic elements, using the method of data collection and music example analysis, focusing on two primary aspects: the application of operatic techniques and the incorporation of folk melodies. Furthermore, it explores potential future directions for Chinese national opera, considering the synergy between folk songs and traditional operatic forms.Chinese national opera has undergone nearly a century of development, and it has become increasingly mature in terms of content and form. However, in the new era context, Chinese national opera has encountered both opportunities and challenges. Therefore, this study aims to explore the innovative practices of the opera White-Haired Girl in terms of national style, in order to provide some reference experiences for the development of Chinese national opera in the new era context.