Suona Musical Instruments Literacy for Wedding through ‘Luo Di Jin Qian’ Repertoire Piece

The Suona musical instrument is a double-reed woodwind instrument renowned for its resonant and expressive sound, central to Chinese folk music. This study investigates the literacy aspects of Suona musical instruments in the context of wedding ceremonies by analyzing the repertoire piece ‘Luo Di Jin Qian.’ Specifically, it symbolizes prosperity and blessings, making it integral to wedding celebrations. This qualitative case study conducted in Tongsi Town, Sichuan Province, used interviews with senior Suona performers, field observations, and musical analysis to explore how this repertoire piece embodies the technical mastery, cultural symbolism, and communal interaction inherent in Suona music. The findings highlight the intricate techniques, such as trills and grace notes, required for effective performance and the oral traditions that transmit these skills across generations. Audience engagement emerged as a critical element, fostering shared cultural appreciation and reinforcing communal identity. However, modernization poses challenges to preserving these traditions, with live performances increasingly replaced by digital recordings. The study concludes with recommendations for integrating Suona music into education, promoting live performances, and leveraging digital tools to sustain oral traditions. These insights contribute to the broader discourse on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in a rapidly modernizing world.