Publication resounds with ancient bells

The bells are 2,500 years old, but their melodies still resound today.

Sixty-five bronze bells of the ancient Zeng State were unearthed in Suizhou, Hubei province, in 1978. They're generally considered by scholars as the highest achievements in the development of musical instruments in China before the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). As the Bronze Age faded away, this finale of Chinese ceremonial music's zenith was sparkling.

Last week, a 1,200-page Chime Bells of Marquis Yi of Zeng - China's most complete monograph so far on this musical milestone - was co-released by Gold Wall Press and Xiyuan Press in Beijing. Compilation of this four-volume book began in 2003. About 30 experts in different fields joined in this interdisciplinary project, sponsored by the Chinese National Academy of Arts.