Chinese Folk Music Literacy: A Case Study of Ebian Yi Wedding Songs

Ebian Yi wedding songs are essential to the Yi ethnic group’s musical and cultural heritage, and they are traditionally performed during wedding ceremonies in Ebian Yi Autonomous County, Sichuan Province, China. This study examines the role of Ebian Yi wedding songs in promoting Chinese folk music literacy and the obstacles affecting their sustainability. Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, fieldwork was conducted in Ebian Yi Autonomous County, where participant observation and in-depth interviews were conducted with seven key informants, including cultural transmitters, music educators, and community members. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on intergenerational knowledge transfer, community participation, and integration into educational programs. The findings reveal that while these wedding songs are crucial for maintaining folk music literacy, factors such as the decline in traditional performers, reduced fluency in the Yi language, and modern wedding practices hinder their continuity. The study suggests implementing mentorship programs, incorporating traditional music into formal education, and leveraging digital platforms for preservation. These strategies can help sustain the transmission of Ebian Yi wedding songs and ensure that future generations maintain their cultural heritage.