An Exploration of Learning Methods for Manchu Songs Based on the Oral Characteristics of the Altaic Language Family

Abstract

Amid the wave of globalization, music, as a language without borders, is transcending geographical and cultural boundaries at an unprecedented pace, intimately connecting melodies and emotions from all corners of the world. In this process, folk songs with distinct characteristics have emerged as significant bridges connecting diverse cultures. They not only carry the sentimental attachments and historical recollections of their own ethnic groups, but they also fuel the curiosity of music lovers around the world to discover new sounds. Among these, Manchu songs have captured the interest of many students due to their distinct phonological appeal. But pronunciation discrepancies present a significant obstacle to learning Manchu songs, especially for learners whose native tongue is not Altaic, where the difficulties are numerous.Manchu is an Altaic language family member, and as such, its pronunciation differs greatly from that of many other European or Asian language families. This distinction can be seen in the rules governing syllable combinations, tone fluctuations, and the arrangement of vowels and consonants. Consequently, when learners attempt to mimic Manchu songs using their native language or familiar linguistic habits, they often mispronounce lyrics or fail to achieve accurate pronunciation. For instance, certain consonants in Manchu may be absent in Chinese or other non-Altaic languages, rendering it difficult for learners to grasp their essence during pronunciation, thereby affecting the overall performance of the song.