High in the misty mountains of southwest China’s Guizhou Province, the melodious echoes of the Miao people’s “flying songs” cascade across valleys and ridge-tops. These enchanting folk songs are more than just music—they are the living heartbeat of the Miao ethnic group, woven intricately into their daily lives and traditions.
From the bustling counties of Kaili, Jianhe, Leishan, Taijiang, to Huangping, the “flying songs” accompany the Miao people through every milestone. Whether tilling fields under the sun, celebrating weddings, welcoming new life, constructing homes, expressing love, or gathering with friends and neighbors, these songs are ever-present, resonating with the rhythms of life.
The origins of the “flying songs” remain a mystery, passed down orally through countless generations. This lack of written record only adds to their mystique. The unique style of these songs emerged as a natural adaptation to the rugged, mountainous terrain of Guizhou. To communicate across the vast expanses and deep valleys, the Miao people developed powerful, expressive vocals that could carry their messages far and wide.
Each note and lyric is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Miao community. The songs are not just artistic expressions but vital tools for storytelling, preserving history, and fostering social bonds. They capture the joys and sorrows, hopes and dreams of a people deeply connected to their land and heritage.
Today, the “flying songs” continue to enchant listeners, both within the Miao community and beyond. They serve as a bridge between the past and the present, a melodic thread that ties generations together and invites the world to experience the rich tapestry of Miao culture.
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Miao people's melodious magic: The enchanting 'flying songs'
cgtn.com
