Wang Jianzhong's Piano Adaptation of the Chinese Red Song Liuyang River: Material Transformation and Structural Reconstruction

Abstract

This qualitative case study examines Wang Jianzhong's 1972 piano adaptation of the Chinese red song Liuyang River. The primary sources are the 2013 Selected Piano Works of Wang Jianzhong and a 17-measure vocal score, analyzed through documentary research, score observation, comparative musical analysis, and functional analysis. Objective 1 identifies retention and transformation in melodic contour, structural tones, rhythm, phrase order, cadences, texture, and form. Objective 2 examines how ornamental inflection, modal harmony, polyphonic texture, registral design, cadenza figuration, and dynamic planning create an autonomous piano structure. The four vocal phrases correspond to mm. 10-32: core contour and cadential direction remain stable while phrase length, texture, and harmonic support expand. Later sections develop the theme through variation, transition, intensified reprise, and coda. Title and thematic recurrence maintain continuity with the source song, while piano-specific organization provides independent instrumental development and formal closure. The study offers a score-based framework for analyzing piano adaptations of Chinese red songs.