Literacy Preservation of Baxian Chinese Folk Traditional Music

Abstract

Baxian music, a traditional folk music genre deeply rooted in Fengshan County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, represents a critical component of the region’s intangible cultural heritage. Known for using the Suona, a traditional woodwind instrument, Baxian music is closely associated with local customs, particularly wedding rituals. This study investigates Baxian music preservation’s current status, focusing on literacy preservation, which is the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and transmit cultural heritage. The research was conducted in Fengshan County and involved seven informants, including veteran Baxian musicians and community members. The study uses qualitative methods such as interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to identify Baxian music’s challenges, including reliance on oral transmission, generational gaps, and economic pressures. The findings show that, despite Baxian music’s continued cultural significance, modernization and shifting cultural values threaten its preservation. The study suggests that formal documentation, digital platforms, and community-based initiatives are crucial for enhancing the preservation of literacy and ensuring Baxian music’s continuity for future generations. The research underscores the need for systematic support, both educational and financial, to safeguard this vital cultural tradition.