History of Miao Drum Dance
The Miao drum dance is a deeply rooted traditional form of the Miao ethnic group in China.
Recognized as a significant part of their cultural heritage, the Miao Drum Dance originated from pre-Han dynasty rituals. It is a central element of Miao culture and is officially listed as an intangible cultural heritage by the Chinese government.
Xiangxi Miao drum music is characterized by specific rhythms, speed, strength, beats, and sound changes. It's unique in playing by simultaneously beating the drum edge and drum, displaying two distinct rhythms and timbres.
Dabian, or beating the drum edge, is a crucial part of Xiangxi Miao drum music, creating a contrast with the main drumming sound. There are two ways of dabian: dadanbian, where one hand is used, and dashuanbian, where both hands are used. Both methods create a warm, enthusiastic atmosphere, often used before a drum dance. In some areas, dabian is played with two players to strengthen the beats.
Xiangxi Miao drum dance uses drumming as its main rhythm, with basic beats in odd numbers. The rhythms can be strong, slow, or warm, reflecting the people's character of happiness, simplicity, honesty, warmth, love, and positivity.
The Forms of Xiangxi Miao Drum Dance
In Xiangxi Miao regions, there are four variations of Xiangxi Miao drum dance: Reunion Drum Dance, Double Drum Dance, Solo Drum Dance, and Drum Dance for Four.
Solo Drum Dance
Solo Drum Dance features a drum head facing forward. There are two forms: one performer drums while dancing, while the other beats the drum edge dabian, or both drum symmetrically. Women's and Men's Solo Drum Dances are common during Spring Festivals, with gongs and other musical instruments playing a role. Monkey Drum Dance is a striking performance in Men's Solo Drum Dance.
Double Drum Dance
Double Drum Dance is a popular tradition in Fenghuang County, featuring sideways drums and symmetrical dances. Men's dances are rougher, while women's are more cheerful. During Spring Festival, bridegrooms perform the kaluo double drum dance at their parents-in-law's village entrance, showcasing happiness and harmony. This unique dance requires synchronization in rhythms and beats between the groom and bride.
Drum Dance for Four
Jishou City's Drum Dance for Four features four drum heads, with performers standing staggered or mixed. They perform symmetrical dance movements, coordinating well with rhythms and beats, rotating their positions clockwise after a round.
Reunion Drum Dance
The Reunion Drum Dance is a traditional group dance in Guzhang County, particularly during the Spring Festival. The dance involves a single drummer, a venerable elder, and various dance movements, including waist swing and hand swing. Participants dance to simple, free, and joyful rhythms, chanting "Ahe! Ahe! Ahe." The dance is popular among villagers, and participants can dance in different directions after a round.