01646nas a2200241   4500000000100000000000100001000000100002008004100003260000800044653001600052653002200068653002200090653002200112653003300134100001500167700002100182245010100203856004200304300001400346490000600360520102400366022001401390       2024                            d  cdec10aKunqu Opera10aacoustic heritage10aCollective memory10acultural identity10aIntangible cultural heritage1 aZihan Ding1 aFrancesco Aletta00aAcoustical Traditions and Cultural Identity: Exploring Kunqu s Contribution to Collective Memory  uhttps://www.mdpi.com/2624-599X/6/4/61  a1115-11390 v63 aKunqu Opera, hailed as the "ancestor of all Chinese operas", plays a crucial role in preserving cultural identity and collective memory in the Jiangnan region. This research examines the acoustical traditions of Kunqu. Through expert interviews and thematic analysis, the study explores key acoustic elements, including vocal techniques and musical structures, and their symbolic and emotional impact. Five central themes emerged, including Kunqu s role in collective memory, its function as a cultural symbol, the evolution of its transmission, the emotional resonance of its acoustic elements, and the modern challenges and opportunities for preservation. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining Kunqu s cultural identity within acoustical heritage, while also recognizing the need for innovation in its transmission. This research contributes to the broader discussion on intangible cultural heritage and provides insights into how traditional art forms like Kunqu can be preserved amidst modernization.  a2624-599X