The Grand Song of the Dong Ethnic Group

The Grand Song of the Dong Ethnic Group, often termed as the Dong grand songs for short, is an enchanting gem within the vast tapestry of human intangible cultural heritage.

This comprehensive volume examines the Dong grand songs from the dual perspectives of the Dong ethnic group and intangible cultural heritage. It delves into the historical origins, artistic characteristics, rich folk customs, esteemed song masters and inheritors, and cultural significance of the Dong grand songs. This unaccompanied polyphonic chorus, spontaneously performed without any conductor, boasts a rich history spanning more than 2,500 years. Recognized on both China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List and UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Dong grand songs stand as a testament to human creativity and cultural diversity.

Compiled by a distinguished team of musicologists, ethnologists, and historians, this book is a treasure trove for both the academia and the public, who are interested in folk music, ethnic dance, and cultural heritage. It serves as a valuable reference and a source of inspiration for the protection and inheritance of intangible cultural heritage worldwide.