Literacy Transmission of Mulao Folk Songs during the Zoupo Festival in Luocheng, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China

Abstract

The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China’s Luocheng, northern Guangxi, and southeast Guizhou are the main distribution hubs for Mulao folk songs, which are a significant aspect of China’s Mulao line customs heritage. The objective of this study was to investigate the literacy transmission of Mulao folk songs during the Zoupo Festival in Luocheng, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. This is a qualitative study that includes relevant literature research, surveys, interviews, and transcriptions. In this study, the informants are categorized into two groups: two scholar informants and four informal informants. The result of this study shows that the Mulao Zoupo Festival in Luocheng, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, has transformed from a mate selection tradition to a platform for the literacy transmission of Mulao folk songs. This traditional folk activity promotes education, cultural exchange, and community engagement, fostering the preservation and promotion of Mulao culture and traditions. It underscores their commitment to maintaining their cultural legacy and encouraging community involvement through music and cultural enrichment. The study sheds light on the Mulao people’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding cultural heritage.