ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the historical, cultural, and musical overview of East Asia. It then provides in-depth studies of varied musical traditions, followed by an "aural analysis" of the sound and prominent musical elements. Culturally, East Asia incorporates not just the immense nation of China but also North and South Korea, Japan, and Mongolia. Although disputed, Tibet and Taiwan are also parts of China, the latter remaining independent as the Republic of China. The music of each country is quite distinct in overall sound, timbre, character, and process. Within China there are differing views of what is traditional and what music should represent China, while foreign researchers often have views that contradict those of the Chinese. Traditional Tibetan music survives intact, including among exiles living in countries such as India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Until the latter part of the twentieth century, most writing on Chinese music focused on ancient instruments, rituals, and aesthetic principles.
