“Baisha Fine Music ” of  Naxi Ethnic Minority in Yulong County, Lijiang 

Baisha Fine Music (白沙细乐) is an integral part of the traditional music of the Naxi ethnic minority. It is widely performed in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (玉龙纳西族自治县) and Gucheng District (古城区) of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. Known for its long history, unique style, and profound cultural significance, it is hailed as a “living fossil of Chinese music.”

With a history of over 1,200 years, Baisha Fine Music is a classical music suite created by the ancestors of the Naxi people. It is believed to have originated during the Yuan Dynasty and is associated with Kublai Khan’s southern expedition. According to legend, after receiving assistance from the Naxi chieftain in Lijiang, Kublai Khan left behind part of his musical ensemble and scores as a gift. This marked the beginning of the transmission of Baisha Fine Music.

Baisha Fine Music is a large-scale classical orchestral form that includes instrumental, vocal, and dance elements. Its style is characterized by its antiquity, elegance, and beautiful melodies, making it highly artistically moving.

The instruments used in Baisha Fine Music include the sugudu (胡拨), curved-neck pipa (琵琶), double-reed bamboo instrument bobo (芦管), horizontal flute, vertical flute, ersheng (二弦拉弦乐器), dahuti (大提胡), and Naxi fiddle. The performers are mostly elderly Naxi folk musicians who have passed down this music through oral and hands-on teaching.

Baisha Fine Music is not only a treasure of Naxi music culture but also an important resource for studying the history of ancient Chinese music. It integrates musical elements from the Tang, Song, and Yuan dynasties, demonstrating the continuity and diversity of Chinese music culture.

In Naxi society, Baisha Fine Music holds significant cultural and social functions. It is often performed at funerals and major sacrificial ceremonies, expressing reverence for life and remembrance of ancestors.

Visitors can enjoy performances of Baisha Fine Music at the Naxi Ancient Music Hall (纳西古乐厅) in Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城). The hall hosts captivating performances every evening, attracting audiences from around the world.

Performances typically take place from 20:00 to 21:30.

Ticket prices vary based on seating location: Class A tickets are priced at 160 RMB, Class B at 140 RMB, and Class C at 120 RMB.

Baisha Fine Music is an important symbol of Naxi culture, showcasing the artistic talent of the Naxi people and their commitment to preserving traditional culture. If you have the opportunity to visit Lijiang, consider attending a performance at the Naxi Ancient Music Hall to experience the charm of this ancient music firsthand.