Beijing, China — Amid the modern hustle of Beijing’s streets, a unique melody is fading away: the enchanting sound of pigeon whistles. Once a common symphony in the skies above the city, these whistles are at risk of being lost to time.
Sound artist Colin Chinnery has dedicated himself to preserving this sonic heritage. Determined to record Beijing’s unique soundscape, Chinnery sees the pigeon whistles as a vital part of the city’s aural history.
To delve deeper into this ancient practice, he teamed up with expert craftsman Zhang Baotong, one of the few remaining masters of pigeon whistle making. Together, they explore the stories and techniques behind these delicate instruments.
“The sound of pigeon whistles is more than just noise; it’s a connection to our past,” says Chinnery. “By capturing and preserving these sounds, we keep a piece of Beijing’s cultural identity alive.”
The collaboration is more than preservation; it’s a revival of interest in a tradition that has been overshadowed by the rapid pace of urban development. Through their efforts, Chinnery and Zhang hope to inspire a new generation to appreciate and continue this historic art form.
Their work highlights the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural treasures amidst modernization, ensuring that the soulful sounds of pigeon whistles will not be forgotten.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
