ABSTRACT

In very general terms it may be said that the foundation of the Office of Music was one of several measures which were taken during the reign of Han Wu-ti as part of a policy of imperial expansion. The abolition of the office was deemed necessary at this time as it was maintained that it had sponsored musical performances which had a disruptive moral effect; and it was thought necessary to concentrate attention on music of a type which was thought to be morally beneficial. The Office of Music was responsible for the collection of songs, the maintenance of orchestras and choirs, and for providing musical performances at certain occasions of state such as court audiences, banquets, and religious services; the office also provided martial music, in accordance with the old institutions of war. The music of Cheng was very popular at the court of Ch'eng-ti and some of its performers had achieved a considerable notoriety.