Dasanxian Dance of Yi Ethnic Minority

Introduction to Dasanxian: The Accompaniment of the Three-string Fiddle (彝族大三弦)

The Dasanxian (大三弦) is a traditional plucked string instrument of the Yi ethnic group, widely known for its distinct and deep tone. It is also called Erhe Yamo, Sanxian Yamo, or Dada in the Yi language, with "Erhe" meaning three strings and "Yamo" meaning large, thus literally translating to the "Large Three-string."

Cultural Heritage Information:

• Heritage Name: Yi Ethnic Group's Dasanxian Dance (彝族大三弦舞)
• Date of Application: 2006
• Region: Yunnan Province, China
• Heritage Number: III-17

1. Overview

The Yi Ethnic Group's Dasanxian Dance is a folk dance that has deep roots in the Yi people's culture and history. The dance, accompanied by the Dasanxian instrument, is prevalent in various parts of Yunnan, including areas like Lu Nan Yi Autonomous County, Yiliang, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, and Weishan Yi Hui Autonomous County. It is enjoyed by the Yi branches of Axi, Aze, and Sani.

The Dasanxian Dance (also known as Jumping the Moon or Big Three-string Dance) is a traditional folk dance passed down by the Axi and Sani branches of the Yi ethnic group, mainly in the central Yunnan region. The dance is an important cultural symbol of the Yi people, often performed during major festivals such as the Torch Festival (火把节) and Flower Insertion Festival (插花节).

Alternative Names

• Big Three-string Dance (大三弦)

• Jumping the Moon (跳月)

Popular Regions

• Yi communities in central Yunnan, including areas like Luliang County (陆良县) and Chuxiong Prefecture (楚雄州).

Dance Style

• Couple Dance: A pair dance between men and women.

• Group Formation: Often performed in circular or square formations.

• Instruments: Accompanied by large, medium, and small three-stringed instruments (三弦) and bamboo flutes (竹笛).

Cultural Significance

• A key representation of Yi ethnic song and dance art.

• A vibrant aspect of Yi festivals and cultural gatherings.

2. Reason for Inclusion in Cultural Heritage

The Dasanxian Dance has a unique charm that resonates deeply with its audience. The phrase "When the flute and three-string sound, everyone's legs start itching" captures the infectious rhythm of the dance. During the Torch Festival, participants light bonfires, play the Dasanxian, and engage in joyful singing and dancing, expressing a deep connection to Yi culture. The dance itself has its roots in Sani's adaptation of the "Axi Dance" (阿细跳月) and maintains a vibrant and rhythmic form, with dancers executing swift steps and clapping in time with the music.

3. Traditional History

The Yi ethnic group has a long-standing tradition of music and dance. At their key festivals such as the Torch Festival, Flower Festival, and the March Meeting, Yi people gather in their finest attire to sing and dance. Traditionally, men played the Sanxian while women clapped and stomped along with the rhythm.

In places like Lu Nan and Mile, the Yi people often refer to this celebration as "Jumping Music" or "Dajia", whereas in regions like Honghe Hani Autonomous Prefecture, it is called "Dajiao" or "Foot Stomp Dance". Historically, Yi youth began playing the three-stringed instrument and participating in these dances as early as their teenage years.

4. Development and Influences

Over time, the Yi Dasanxian Dance evolved through several stages. Initially, the dance was accompanied by a small, gourd-shaped three-stringed instrument. However, after the founding of the People's Republic of China, the instrument evolved into a larger wooden version, and the accompanying dance steps grew more complex.

In 1921, Duan Xianwang from Mile County made the first generation of the larger three-stringed instrument, which became the standard accompaniment for the dance. In 1930, Zhang Chongren from Xishan also innovated upon the instrument's design, which led to the widespread popularity of the Dasanxian in Yi villages.

5. Dance Structure and Features

The Dasanxian Dance is performed in various forms across different Yi communities. Dancers form lines or circles, with men playing the three-stringed instrument and accompanying themselves with the flute, while women dance, clap, or stomp along with the music.

The dance's rhythm is typically in a 5/4 time signature. The dance steps vary, but some common ones include the "Jumping Step," "Running Step," and "Turn and Jump." Dancers can form different formations, such as a single line, a double line, or a large circle, with a tempo that shifts from fast to slow.

Origin and Transmission

The Dasanxian Dance is primarily popular among the Axi and Sani Yi subgroups in central Yunnan. Historically, the dance dates back to Yi traditional celebrations, passed down through generations via oral traditions. It is beloved for its self-entertainment aspect and remains a vital part of Yi cultural expression. According to literature from 2022, the dance has existed for centuries and is closely associated with the Torch Festival and Flower Insertion Festival.

Dance Features

The Dasanxian Dance is marked by distinct stylistic elements:

• Core Movement Styles: The dance is characterized by movements described as "沉" (deep), "稳" (steady), "颤" (shaking), "顿" (pausing), "朴实" (simple), "矫健" (vigorous), and "豪放" (bold).

• Male Dancers: Lead the rhythm with the three-stringed instrument, harmonizing their steps with the beat.

• Female Dancers: Respond with hand claps, foot stomps, and other movements that complement the male dancers' lead.

The dance usually features two primary formations:

1. Concentric Circle: Dancers form multiple concentric circles and perform synchronized movements.

2. Square Formation: Dancers move in a cross-like pattern, enhancing the visual tension.

6. Historical Development of "Axi Dance" (阿细跳月)

The Axi Dance or "Axi Jumping the Moon" is one of the most celebrated traditions in the Yi culture, and it is an evolution of the Dasanxian Dance. According to some historical accounts, the name originated from ancient practices where the Yi people would jump on the fields while working to avoid burning their feet on the embers of a fire used for land clearing. Over time, this motion evolved into a dance, and the accompanying chant "Aza" remains a key part of the performance today.

7. Main Styles of Dance

The Dasanxian Dance is often performed by three groups:

• Youth Dance
• Elder Dance
• Children's Dance

The Youth Dance is the most representative form, characterized by lively steps and bold, energetic movements. It is performed to a fast-paced rhythm and is often accompanied by a high-pitched tune played on the Dasanxian and flute. The dance is full of vitality, with dynamic movements, graceful poses, and a strong sense of collective spirit.

8. Popularity and Community Involvement

The Dasanxian Dance is widely practiced and enjoyed in Yi communities. In areas such as Lu Liang and Shilin, large-scale performances are held during festive occasions, where both young and old participate in the dance, making it a powerful expression of community spirit.

In Shilin County, Guishan Township, and Mule Township, the Sani Yi people have a strong tradition of the Dasanxian Dance, with entire villages actively participating. Many people in these communities are skilled in playing traditional instruments like bamboo flutes and the Dasanxian.

The Dasanxian Dance of the Yi Ethnic Group is a vibrant and important part of the cultural heritage of Yunnan Province. It has evolved from a simple folk tradition into a sophisticated, widely appreciated dance form that is celebrated both in local festivals and international stages. From its roots in labor and ritual to its current place in the cultural spotlight, the Yi Dasanxian Dance continues to inspire and engage audiences, bringing the spirit of Yi culture to life.

Performance Scenarios

The Dasanxian Dance is typically performed during significant Yi festivals, such as the Torch Festival (农历六月廿四) and the Flower Insertion Festival (农历二月初八).

• In 2015, a large-scale performance of the dance was held in Dagu Yi Village in Luliang County. Hundreds of dancers, dressed in traditional attire (or embroidered costumes), performed the dance from evening until dawn in the village square. This vibrant celebration is one of the most vivid portrayals of Yi culture.

Cultural Significance

The Dasanxian Dance is a crucial part of Yi intangible cultural heritage. It not only serves as a form of historical remembrance but also reinforces community bonds through collective dance. As noted in Chuxiong Prefecture's 2022 records, this dance is particularly cherished by the Axi and Sani Yi people in central Yunnan, where it is performed during major festivals like the Torch Festival.

The dance plays a vital role in celebrating Yi culture, fostering a sense of unity, and ensuring the continuation of traditional Yi cultural practices.