Interaction between Ethnic Music and Local Festival Culture: Perspectives on Tradition and Contemporary Contexts

Abstract

This paper explores the dynamic interaction between ethnic music and local festival cultures, focusing on the Daur, Hezhe, Evenki, and Oroqen ethnic groups of China. These groups possess rich musical traditions that are intricately tied to their local festivals, which serve as important spaces for the expression of cultural identity, social cohesion, and religious practices. Through an in-depth examination of both traditional and contemporary festival contexts, this study investigates how these communities maintain, adapt, and transform their musical practices in the face of globalization and modernization. By analyzing historical and contemporary festival music, the paper highlights the preservation of traditional elements, such as unique musical instruments, ritual performances, and oral traditions, alongside the influences of media, tourism, and global cultural exchanges. Furthermore, it examines how these music practices contribute to cultural sustainability, community identity, and the revitalization of local languages and customs. The study employs ethnographic research methods, including fieldwork, interviews, and audio-visual analysis, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolving role of music in local festivals. Ultimately, this paper underscores the importance of music in safeguarding cultural heritage, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by modernity. It offers a nuanced perspective on the intersection of tradition and contemporary influences in the cultural practices of these ethnic communities.