Li Mingfa (李发明) is an inheritor of the Yi Suona performance art in Ren He Town (仁和镇), Yong Sheng County (永胜县), Lijiang City (丽江市). He has left a solid and profound mark in the protection and inheritance of the traditional Yi music culture. Born into a Yi family in Ren He Town, Li Mingfa developed a strong interest in Yi traditional music at a young age. Immersed in the rich local ethnic cultural atmosphere, he was exposed to the passionate, lively, and uniquely ethnic melodies of Yi Suona from an early age. As a teenager, he actively followed local veteran artists to learn Suona playing skills, from the basic flute-holding posture and breathing methods to complex tune playing and emotional expression. After years of persistent effort, Li Mingfa has become proficient in various techniques of Yi Suona performance and is a well-known Suona player in the local area.
The Art of Yi Suona Performance
The Yi Suona performance art has a long history in Ren He Town, Yong Sheng County. It is an artistic crystallization formed by the Yi people in their long-term production, life, and folk activities. On important occasions such as weddings, funerals, and festivals, the sound of Suona is always indispensable. It conveys the joys and sorrows of the Yi people through its unique musical language and carries rich ethnic emotions and cultural connotations. The performance style is passionate and unrestrained, with a brisk and changeable rhythm and highly infectious melody, often bringing the atmosphere of the scene to a climax. Li Mingfa can perfectly perform traditional classic pieces and also innovate by combining modern musical elements, giving new vitality to the ancient Yi Suona performance.
Commitment to Inheritance
In order to pass down the Yi Suona performance art, Li Mingfa has spared no effort. He actively participates in various local folk activities and cultural performances, allowing more people to feel the charm of Yi Suona performance through live performances and attracting the attention of the younger generation to this traditional skill. He also takes on apprentices and patiently passes on his accumulated performance experience and skills to the young people. In the teaching process, he tailors his teaching methods to each student’s characteristics, providing careful guidance from theoretical knowledge to practical operation.
Challenges and Efforts
However, under the impact of modern diversified culture, the inheritance of Yi Suona performance art faces many challenges. Young people are more influenced by popular culture, and their interest in traditional skills is gradually decreasing, with fewer people learning to play the Suona. Faced with these difficulties, Li Mingfa has not been discouraged. He actively communicates and collaborates with local governments and cultural departments to bring Yi Suona performance art into schools, conduct relevant cultural lectures and interest classes, and let children get in touch with and understand this traditional skill from a young age. He also tries to use new media platforms to record performance videos and share teaching courses to expand the dissemination of Yi Suona performance art.
A Lifelong Dedication
Li Mingfa, driven by his passion and commitment to Yi Suona performance art, continues to forge ahead on the path of inheritance and development. He is contributing his own strength to the protection and promotion of the excellent traditional Yi culture, striving to let this ancient skill shine with new vitality in the new era.
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2896.html
Yu Xianjun (余仙君), a member of the Lisu ethnic group (傈僳族), is a representative inheritor of the “Achimu Gua” (阿尺目刮) cultural heritage project in Yezhi Township (叶枝乡), Weixi County (维西县), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州). Having grown up in Yezhi Town (叶枝镇), the birthplace of “Achimu Gua”, she was deeply influenced by this traditional art form from a young age. She learned its traditional vocal techniques, lyrics, and various dance forms from her elders and has actively participated in cultural events to showcase its charm and inspire wider interest and learning.
Teaching and Mentorship
As a bearer of intangible cultural heritage, Yu Xianjun has taken her role seriously, training a new generation of young inheritors. She passes on the skills of “Achimu Gua” (阿尺目刮) through oral instruction and close mentorship, ensuring the authenticity and vitality of this traditional art form.
Cultural Activities
Yu Xianjun frequently participates in local ethnic festivals and cultural events such as Spring Festival, the Torch Festival, weddings, and religious ceremonies. These occasions provide vibrant stages for her to demonstrate the unique appeal of “Achimu Gua” and deepen public appreciation of Lisu cultural traditions.
Artistic Characteristics
Meaning and Origin
“Achimu Gua” (阿尺目刮), meaning “Dance and Song of the Goat” or “Song Imitating Goat Sounds,” is a traditional self-entertaining folk dance of the Lisu people (傈僳族), widely practiced in Tongle (同乐) and Xinle (新乐) villages of Yezhi Town (叶枝镇), Weixi County (维西县).
Music and Dance
This art form uses no instrumental accompaniment. From beginning to end, participants dance and sing simultaneously. The musical structure consists of a lead singer and chorus, with lyrical themes that span from ancient myths to present-day life and work, making it rich in cultural expression.
Dance Movements
Both the movements and vocalizations mimic goats and scenes from nomadic life, exuding a strong sense of primal vitality and natural rhythm. The dance is passionate and uninhibited in style, retaining its traditional folk artistry and authenticity.
Social and Cultural Value
“Achimu Gua” (阿尺目刮) is not only a powerful medium for expressing the emotions and ideas of the Lisu people but also a vital link for enhancing ethnic cohesion and promoting social harmony. In 2009, it was officially listed in the Yunnan Province Intangible Cultural Heritage Directory.
Through her mentorship, cultural participation, and creative contributions, Yu Xianjun (余仙君) has made a significant impact on preserving and revitalizing the Lisu “Achimu Gua” (阿尺目刮), playing a key role in the ongoing protection and development of this intangible cultural heritage.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2899.html
Profile of Li Shida
Li Shida, male, Lisu ethnicity, was born in 1945 in Xinglong Village (兴隆村), Jinjiang Town (金江镇), Shangri-La City (香格里拉市), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). He is a renowned master of traditional Lisu musical instruments, specializing in performing and crafting the earth lute (“Jizi” (吉资) in Lisu language) and three-stringed lute (“Qiben” (起本)).
Artistic Background
Growing up in a multi-ethnic village inhabited by Pumi (普米), Han (汉), Naxi (纳西), Lisu (傈僳), Bai (白), Miao (苗), Yi (彝), Tibetan (藏), and Hui (回) groups, Li inherited his musical passion from his parents – celebrated local singers known for their improvisational folk songs. He began learning Lisu music and dance from his father during childhood.
Performance Skills and Contributions
Li has mastered multiple traditional instruments including:
- Jizi (吉资)
- Qiben (起本)
- Erhu
- Gourd Sheng
His repertoire encompasses diverse Lisu folk songs:
- Ancient ballads
- Love songs
- Competitive songs
- Ritual chants
- Funeral dirges
- Odes
As a lead performer of “Waqiqi” (瓦器器) dance (an 18-segment dance featuring “Twelve Steps” footwork), Li excels in both dancing and musical accompaniment.
His family band is highly sought-after for important local events. During agricultural off-seasons, they tour neighboring villages to promote Lisu folk arts. As a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage inheritor, Li actively teaches younger generations.
Cultural Preservation and Influence
Li’s work has significantly contributed to preserving Lisu culture by:
- Maintaining authentic performance styles
- Incorporating contemporary aesthetics
- Revitalizing traditional arts
His efforts have made Lisu music and dance vital components of Diqing’s (迪庆) intangible cultural heritage.
As a master performer, Li has achieved technical excellence while making outstanding contributions to sustaining and developing Lisu traditional arts in modern society.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2901.html
Meet Li Xuehua: The Guardian of Lisu “Qiben” Music in Lushui City
In the heart of the Nujiang Valley, where the echoes of tradition meet the beauty of nature, lies Lushui City. Here, Li Xuehua, a revered master of Lisu “Qiben” music, continues to preserve and share the soulful melodies of his people.
A Lifetime of Musical Dedication
Born in 1952 in Lushui City, Li Xuehua has been deeply connected to Lisu music since his youth. Recognized as a National Representative Inheritor of Lisu Folk Songs, he has dedicated over 40 years to nurturing the next generation of musicians and singers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of “Qiben” but also brought it to new audiences.
Born in 1952 in Lushui City, Li Xuehua has been deeply connected to Lisu music since his youth. Recognized as a National Representative Inheritor of Lisu Folk Songs, he has dedicated over 40 years to nurturing the next generation of musicians and singers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of “Qiben” but also brought it to new audiences.
Master of the Art
Li Xuehua is a true master of the Lisu “Qiben” technique, a unique musical tradition that combines singing, storytelling, and instrumental performance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Lisu people.
Li Xuehua is a true master of the Lisu “Qiben” technique, a unique musical tradition that combines singing, storytelling, and instrumental performance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Lisu people.
A Cultural Ambassador
Beyond his musical prowess, Li Xuehua is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians, including Li Xinming, Li Xinhua, and Hu Xuezhong, ensuring that the legacy of Lisu music continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him the title of “song god” among the local Lisu community.
Beyond his musical prowess, Li Xuehua is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians, including Li Xinming, Li Xinhua, and Hu Xuezhong, ensuring that the legacy of Lisu music continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him the title of “song god” among the local Lisu community.
Experience the Magic of Lisu Music
Join Li Xuehua as he brings the soulful melodies of Lisu “Qiben” music to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Lisu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Li Xuehua is an unforgettable journey into the world of Lisu traditions.
Join Li Xuehua as he brings the soulful melodies of Lisu “Qiben” music to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Lisu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Li Xuehua is an unforgettable journey into the world of Lisu traditions.
Meet Li Hanliang: The Guardian of Nu Folk Songs and Dances in Bingzhongluo Township, Gongshan County
In the mystical Nujiang Valley, where the mountains touch the clouds and traditions echo through time, lies Bingzhongluo Township in Gongshan County. Here, Li Hanliang, a revered Nu folk song and dance master, continues to preserve and share the soulful melodies and vibrant dances of his people.
A Life Devoted to Tradition
Born in Bingzhongluo Township, Li Hanliang has been deeply connected to Nu culture since his youth. Recognized as a National Representative Inheritor of Nu Folk Songs and Dances, he has dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of musicians and dancers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of Nu folk songs and dances but also brought it to new audiences.
Born in Bingzhongluo Township, Li Hanliang has been deeply connected to Nu culture since his youth. Recognized as a National Representative Inheritor of Nu Folk Songs and Dances, he has dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of musicians and dancers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of Nu folk songs and dances but also brought it to new audiences.
Master of Nu Folk Songs and Dances
Li Hanliang is a true master of Nu folk songs and dances, a unique cultural tradition that combines music, storytelling, and dance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Nu people.
Li Hanliang is a true master of Nu folk songs and dances, a unique cultural tradition that combines music, storytelling, and dance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Nu people.
A Cultural Ambassador
Beyond his artistic prowess, Li Hanliang is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians and dancers, ensuring that the legacy of Nu folk songs and dances continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him widespread recognition and respect within the local community.
Beyond his artistic prowess, Li Hanliang is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians and dancers, ensuring that the legacy of Nu folk songs and dances continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him widespread recognition and respect within the local community.
Experience the Magic of Nu Folk Songs and Dances
Join Li Hanliang as he brings the soulful melodies and vibrant dances of the Nu people to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Nu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Li Hanliang is an unforgettable journey into the world of Nu traditions.
Join Li Hanliang as he brings the soulful melodies and vibrant dances of the Nu people to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Nu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Li Hanliang is an unforgettable journey into the world of Nu traditions.
Meet Deng Siku: The Guardian of Lisu Folk Songs in Shangpa Town, Fugong County
In the heart of the Nujiang Valley, where the echoes of tradition meet the beauty of nature, lies Shangpa Town in Fugong County. Here, Deng Siku, a revered master of Lisu folk songs, continues to preserve and share the soulful melodies of his people.
A Life Devoted to Music
Born in Fugong County, Deng Siku has been deeply connected to Lisu music since his youth. Recognized as a Provincial Representative Inheritor of Lisu Folk Songs, he has dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of musicians and singers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of Lisu folk songs but also brought it to new audiences.
Born in Fugong County, Deng Siku has been deeply connected to Lisu music since his youth. Recognized as a Provincial Representative Inheritor of Lisu Folk Songs, he has dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of musicians and singers. His efforts have not only preserved the ancient art of Lisu folk songs but also brought it to new audiences.
Master of the Art
Deng Siku is a true master of Lisu folk songs, a unique musical tradition that combines singing, storytelling, and instrumental performance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Lisu people.
Deng Siku is a true master of Lisu folk songs, a unique musical tradition that combines singing, storytelling, and instrumental performance. His performances are a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Lisu people.
A Cultural Ambassador
Beyond his artistic prowess, Deng Siku is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians, ensuring that the legacy of Lisu folk songs continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him widespread recognition and respect within the local community.
Beyond his artistic prowess, Deng Siku is a cultural ambassador. He has trained numerous talented musicians, ensuring that the legacy of Lisu folk songs continues to thrive. His dedication has earned him widespread recognition and respect within the local community.
Experience the Magic of Lisu Folk Songs
Join Deng Siku as he brings the soulful melodies of Lisu folk songs to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Lisu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Deng Siku is an unforgettable journey into the world of Lisu traditions.
Join Deng Siku as he brings the soulful melodies of Lisu folk songs to life. Whether you’re a music lover or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of the Nujiang Valley, his performances offer a window into the heart and soul of the Lisu people. Don’t miss the chance to witness this living cultural treasure—a performance by Deng Siku is an unforgettable journey into the world of Lisu traditions.
Cao Fuchang – Inheritor of Lisu Folk Song in Yongde County, Lincang
临沧市永德县乌木龙乡傈僳族民歌传承人 – 曹福昌
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2906.html
Yang Zhengfa – Inheritor of Miao Lusheng-playing Skill in Changning County, Baoshan
保山市昌宁县苗族芦笙演奏技艺传承人 – 杨正发
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2884.html
Zhang Liwang – Inheritor of Achang Ethnic Culture in Lianghe County, Dehong
德宏州梁河县九宝乡阿昌族民族文化传承人 – 张立旺
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2888.html
Duan Qingfeng – Inheritor of Bai “Dabenqu” Opera in Binchuan County, Dali
大理州宾川县鸡足山镇白族大本曲传承人 – 段风清
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2873.html
An Shaorong – Master of Yi Suona-playing in Shidian County, Baoshan
保山市施甸县摆榔乡彝族唢呐演奏能手 – 安绍荣
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2876.html
Dao Dewen – Inheritor of Dai Folk Literature and Art in Lujiang Town, Baoshan
保山市隆阳区潞江乡傣族民间文艺传承人 -刀德文
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2879.html
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Li Mingfa (李发明) is an inheritor of the Yi Suona performance art in Ren He Town (仁和镇), Yong Sheng County (永胜县), Lijiang City (丽江市). He has left a solid...
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Profile of Li Shida Li Shida, male, Lisu ethnicity, was born in 1945 in Xinglong Village (兴隆村), Jinjiang Town (金江镇), Shangri-La City (香格里拉市), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province...
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Meet Li Xuehua: The Guardian of Lisu “Qiben” Music in Lushui City In the heart of the Nujiang Valley, where the echoes of tradition meet the beauty of nature,...
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Meet Li Hanliang: The Guardian of Nu Folk Songs and Dances in Bingzhongluo Township, Gongshan County In the mystical Nujiang Valley, where the mountains touch the clouds and traditions...
Deng Sikua – Inheritor of Lisu Folk Song in Fugong County, Nujiang
Meet Deng Siku: The Guardian of Lisu Folk Songs in Shangpa Town, Fugong County In the heart of the Nujiang Valley, where the echoes of tradition meet the beauty...
Cao Fuchang – Inheritor of Lisu Folk Song in Yongde County, Lincang
Cao Fuchang – Inheritor of Lisu Folk Song in Yongde County, Lincang 临沧市永德县乌木龙乡傈僳族民歌传承人 – 曹福昌 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2906.html...
Yang Zhengfa – Inheritor of Miao Lusheng-playing Skill in Changning County, Baoshan
Yang Zhengfa – Inheritor of Miao Lusheng-playing Skill in Changning County, Baoshan 保山市昌宁县苗族芦笙演奏技艺传承人 – 杨正发 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2884.html...
Zhang Liwang – Inheritor of Achang Ethnic Culture in Lianghe County, Dehong
Zhang Liwang – Inheritor of Achang Ethnic Culture in Lianghe County, Dehong 德宏州梁河县九宝乡阿昌族民族文化传承人 – 张立旺 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2888.html...
Duan Qingfeng – Inheritor of Bai “Dabenqu” Opera in Binchuan County, Dali
Duan Qingfeng – Inheritor of Bai “Dabenqu” Opera in Binchuan County, Dali 大理州宾川县鸡足山镇白族大本曲传承人 – 段风清 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2873.html...
An Shaorong – Master of Yi Suona-playing in Shidian County, Baoshan
An Shaorong – Master of Yi Suona-playing in Shidian County, Baoshan 保山市施甸县摆榔乡彝族唢呐演奏能手 – 安绍荣 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2876.html...
Dao Dewen – Inheritor of Dai Folk Literature and Art in Lujiang Town, Baoshan
Dao Dewen – Inheritor of Dai Folk Literature and Art in Lujiang Town, Baoshan 保山市隆阳区潞江乡傣族民间文艺传承人 -刀德文 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2879.html...
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