Inheritor of Yi Folk Music in Shiping County, Honghe

A Jiawen – Inheritor of Yi Folk Music in Shiping County, Honghe

Ajiawen is a folk music inheritor of the Yi ethnic group from Quzuo Village, Shaochong Town, Shiping County, Yunnan Province. Below is a detailed introduction about him:

Personal Background

Ajiawen, male, Yi ethnic, was born in 1939 in Quzuo Village, Shaochong Town, Shiping County. He grew up in a family where he was exposed to the rich traditions of Yi folk music. From a young age, he showed a strong interest in the four-stringed instrument and began learning to play it from his father at the age of 12.

Craft Features

  • Four-Stringed Instrument Skills: Ajiawen is highly skilled in playing the four-stringed instrument, a traditional Yi musical instrument. His playing is known for its intricate finger techniques, smooth transitions, and emotional depth, which have earned him the nickname “Four-String Master” among the local Yi community.
  • Musical Instrument Making: In addition to his playing skills, Ajiawen is also proficient in crafting four-stringed instruments. His instruments are praised for their excellent sound quality and aesthetic design, making them highly sought after.

Cultural Contributions

  • Skill Transmission: Ajiawen has been actively involved in passing down the skills of playing and making the four-stringed instrument. He has trained over 200 apprentices, many of whom have become excellent folk musicians. He has also broken traditional gender barriers by teaching both men and women.
  • Cultural Promotion: His performances and teachings have helped to raise awareness of Yi folk music. He has participated in numerous cultural activities and performances, both locally and internationally, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Yi people.

Influence and Honors

  • Ajiawen’s dedication and exceptional skills have earned him numerous honors. In 2008, he was recognized as a national-level inheritor of the Yi ethnic “Hai Cai Chamber” and “Yi Ethnic Smoke Box Dance” by the National Cultural Heritage Administration.
  • He has been awarded the title of “China Folk Artist” by the Ministry of Culture and the title of “Yunnan Folk Artist” by the Yunnan Provincial Governmen

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