PHILOSOPHICAL AND RELIGIOUS DIMENSIONS OF LUSHENG MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN THE QIANDONGNAN MIAO AND DONG AUTONOMOUS PREFECTURE

Abstract

This study explores the philosophical and religious dimensions of Lusheng musical instruments in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province, China. The study's qualitative research method involved conducting interviews and observations, and the use of qualitative research design grounded in ethnomusicological theory and philosophical and religious frameworks. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify participants comprising musicians, community leaders, artisans, religious figures, and elders having extensive knowledge about Lusheng traditions. A thematic content analysis approach was used to analyze the data collected. The results of the study reveals that the Miao and Dong communities deeply integrate one Lusheng instrument, a traditional reed-pipe, into their cultural, spiritual, and social fabric. The research highlights Lusheng’s significance in religious ceremonies such as funerals and the Drum Zang Festival, where it functions as a sacred medium, facilitating communication with ancestors and deities. Philosophically, Lusheng music embodies communal unity, continuity and the interconnectedness of life and death. Economically, Lusheng music supports local artisans and performers, contributing to the region’s economy through its production and performance during festivals and tourist attractions. Educationally, Lusheng music fosters cultural identity, religious understanding, and artistic expression, ensuring its transmission across generations. Through formal and informal educational programs, the Lusheng remains a vibrant part of community life, blending tradition with creative innovation. The study underscores the importance of preserving Lusheng as both a cultural and spiritual artifact, enriching the lives of the Miao and Dong people while maintaining its relevance in the modern world.