Apart from the 'Han nationality, the largest ethnic group, there are 55 other nationalities in China. Although international interest in the rich music tradition of these nationalities has never been lacking among ethnomusicologists, in practice it is Han Chinese music that has been studied almost exclusively.This book is by no means a scholarly monograph, though even experts and academic researchers may find new data here. l wrote this book basically for those who love to listen to music as well as those who love to play and compose.lt was my intent to provide the general public with much-needed knowledge about the history, tradition, practice, and the present state of the music heritage of the thus far little-known nationalities who live in China. This heritage is a treasure not only of China, but also that of the entire international human community.It goes without saying that any subject that deals with the culture of a population of many millions deserves a much more extensive treatment, and to some the present work might be over-ambitious. However, it is the very first overview in the English language of the entire music tradition of all the nationalities in China. Since most readers are familiar with the western music system, which is by no means a universal one, I would like to suggest that in order to gain the most benefit from the present work, careful reading of the Introduction is indispensable. There are many new music concepts and terms explained for a better understanding of systems and practices of these music traditions. For the experts and academicians, the works listed in the Reference at the end of the volume will provide opportunities for further in-depth study.