The Chinese musical scale, on the other hand, consists of five notes. Therefore, Chinese music usually sounds very different to Western ears. However, with China's recent receptiveness to Western culture, many Chinese musicians know and play Western music and instruments. Literature Classical Chinese literature takes the form of poetry, history, philosophy, and ethics. Masterpieces of fiction and drama reflect actual conditions of living in the structured society of ancient China as well as characters and stories from Chinese mythology.
Chinese opera has many cultural and regional variations.
However, it is always based on a historical tale and uses music, acrobatics, and dance. The actors in Beijing opera use much heavier makeup than those in the Cantonese or the Chiu Chow operas of the south. Makeup, movement, and specific colors of costumes signify the character's age, sex, and personality. The one worn by the most important character always has elaborate designs and decorations. In future issues, we will explore Chinese art and culture in greater detail with pictures and illustrations.