The air was filled with the resonant sounds of lushengs as hundreds of teams gathered in Liujin Miao Village, Guangxi, on December 13, 2023, to celebrate the first day of the Miao New Year. The lusheng, a traditional mouth organ made of multiple bamboo pipes, took center stage in a grand competition that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Miao people.
Participants from across the region flocked to the border of Guangxi and Guizhou, each bringing their own lushengs adorned with intricate designs. The competition was not just about whose instrument could produce the loudest sound but also a celebration of unity, tradition, and the bountiful harvest of the past year.
The Miao group, one of the oldest ethnic minorities in China, holds the belief that everything has a “soul.” Their New Year festival is the most significant and grandest event, filled with vibrant rituals, dances, and music. The lusheng, in particular, is deeply embedded in Miao culture, symbolizing joy and communal harmony.
“This festival is a time for us to come together and honor our ancestors and traditions,” said a local participant. “Through the lusheng competition, we express our gratitude for the harvest and look forward to a prosperous new year.”
Visitors and locals alike were treated to a dazzling display of music and dance as the sounds of the lusheng echoed through the village. The event not only reinforced cultural bonds within the Miao community but also provided an opportunity for others to experience and appreciate the richness of Miao traditions.
The Miao New Year festivities are expected to continue throughout the week, featuring various cultural activities that highlight the group’s unique customs and heritage.
Reference(s):
Traditional lusheng competition marks grandeur of Miao New Year
cgtn.com
