Buddhist Music

Uniqueness of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Monastic Choir

There is a Chinese proverb, "A footprint is left behind when the path has been walked on." Years of endeavor have borne fruit as many people have come to know Buddhism through appreciating Buddhist music. Many have been moved by the serenity and calmness of fan bei and have become a Buddhist, while others commit to the promotion of Buddhist music. Some of those who were in the past against Venerable Master Hsing Yun, have finally recognized that the promotion of Buddhist music is also a way to spread Buddhism.

Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Music has stepped out of the monastery and has spread to every corner of the globe. After 50 years of introducing Buddhist music, the following features have been attained:

1. Diversity
As Buddhist music has a wide scope, there is always variety in every performance. Besides combining different musical instruments, Dun Huang Dances have also been included thus the programs are always rich in diversity.

2. Internationalization 
In order to have a universal influence, Sanskrit chanting has also been added to the Chinese music. Also, dialog with other countries (including Japan and Korea) in sharing the music's appreciation, has extended international friendship and harmony.

3. Traditionalism
To encourage the audience to understand Buddhist music, some of the melodies are played through a combination of traditional musical instruments so that the pureness and serenity of fan bei can be experienced. Also, a sketch on monastic life is presented with the hope that people will have a correct understanding of Buddhism.

4. Initiative 
Computerized animation is added to the scene as well as subtitles in order to produce clearer visual qualities for the audience. This helps the audience to better understand Buddhism.

5. Harmonization 
Fo Guang Shan Buddhist music is chanted in hai zhao yin (sea-wave  sounds) according to one's breath and tenderness, at the same time harmonizing with each other like the rhythm of the sea's waves. This unique feature is exclusive to this music. 

The concerts are always performed to perfection, as they are recording history. Thus, whenever this sacred music is played, there will be sounds of the Dharma. 

Asvaghosa

Chinese Fan-Bei

Contemporary Era

Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Monastic Choir

Album

2004 Schedule

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