Chinese ethnic group preserves its culture through music

A self-sufficient agrarian society in China’s Guizhou Province, with a population of around 3 million has tried to safeguard its cultural sanctity for 500 years through music. In the absence of writing, music has served as a representation of the Dong ethnic group.

he Grand Song is not just a historical representation and preservation of the ethnic community’s heritage but a treat to the ears too. It has been religiously passed down for over 2500 years. The song is cultural artifact and has been labeled as World Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Dong group is known for their rich culture and colorful dressing style. The people of the group believe that songs nourish the soul just like food nourishes the body. The Song consists of historical knowledge and stories of the community. This was started when there was no writing system but even today, the music form is more popular and widespread.

The song has been described as ‘heavenly music’ because it entirely relies on singers’ voice and its rhythm.

The harmonious grand Song is sung in groups ranging from three to hundreds of people. Traditionally, the song is performed in a polyphonic chorus in outdoor situation with a greater vocal variety of women, children and male.

The song is sung in different voices like bass, alto and soprano.