Pu Tian Yue

The Pu Tian Yue is considered the first national song of China, though it was not approved by the official Qing Dynasty.

History

In 1878, , Zeng Jize had a diplomatic visit to Great Britain and France; he was appointed Ambassador to Russia two years later. At a international convention, a national song was needed, so he wrote the song Pu Tian Yue to the tune 词牌. The lyrics seem to have disappeared.

This song was not officially approved by the Qing Dynasty, but is widely recognized as the National Song of China in other countries.

Criticism

Some critics say the song is too slow.