The Chinese Guqin is a seven-stringed zither, that was favored by Chinese literati for thousands of years. And the traditional musical instrument is still played today. Contemporary Guqin master, Bo Keli performed several new Guqin songs for an audience at Peking University's Centenary Hall on Tuesday.

Ancient poems accompanied by ancient Guqin music. Peking University hosted this special concert for select guests at its Cenetary Hall. Guqin music is thousands of years old. It embodies refined culture, and symbolizes a deep connection between people. A famous Guqin player once referred to listeners who understood his music as "Soul Mates."

With all of the hustle and bustle of modern society, it is rare to hear Guqin music today.  But there is always someone playing it, keeping it alive. Guqin master Bo Keli is one of them.
 
"The highlight of the evening is Xian Ge, where ancient poem recitals are accompanied by the Guqin," Bo said.

"Ever since ancient times, the Guqin has been held high as a royal and dignified musical instrument, available only to the upper classes. Old musical instruments like that can deliver a connection with ancient philosophies and a better understanding of our culture."

Boasting a history of 3,000 years, the Guqin is one of China's oldest string instruments.

In 2003, this plucked seven-string member of the zither family became the only Chinese instrument to make UNESCO's list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Its appearance in the opening ceremony of Beijing's 2008 Olympic Games revived its popularity.

The unique, peaceful musical instrument enchanted both domestic and international audiences with its rare old-world sound.

"We've chosen to stage the concert at Peking University where young students could really get close with the Guqin and the profound cultural meaning behind its music," said Zhang Zisheng, Guqin artist.

"More people are interested in learning about this old instrument and the cultural meaning behind its music. I feel I have the responsibility to introduce the tradition to more young people. It is such a profound instrument."

Thanks to enthusiasts like Bo Keli and Zhang Zisheng, this ancient instrument won't ever be confined to the silent halls of a museum. Instead it’s seeing a gradually revival in a modern world.