Exploring the Significance of Traditional Music in Safeguarding and Transmitting Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Case Study of the Yunnan Bai Ethnic Group

This scholarly exploration delves deeply into the profound significance of traditional music within the Yunnan Bai Ethnic Group, a community nestled in the southern reaches of Yunnan Province, China. Rooted in centuries of history and tightly interwoven with their cultural identity, traditional music emerges as an invaluable conduit for the preservation and transmission of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) among the Yunnan Bai. With meticulous scrutiny encompassing its historical trajectory, a diverse array of instruments, and its multifaceted roles in rituals, celebrations, and daily life, this study emphatically underscores the pivotal role of music in encapsulating narratives, instilling cultural values, and fostering a profound sense of communal belonging. Nevertheless, the contemporary terrain presents formidable challenges to the safeguarding of this rich cultural legacy, exacerbated by the forces of urbanization, globalization, and evolving lifestyles. To counteract these challenges effectively, a multifaceted array of strategies is elucidated herein, encompassing educational programs, mentorship initiatives, and the astute utilization of MS Excel, NVivo, and SPSS 26 for data analysis, along with technology and media for broader heritage dissemination. These initiatives stand as vital pillars in bridging generational divides and ensuring the enduring vitality of Yunnan Bai traditional music. In essence, traditional music within the Yunnan Bai community stands not only as a sonic tapestry but also as a testament to the resilience of intangible cultural heritage. This study illuminates the indispensable role of music in safeguarding and perpetuating the intricate cultural fabric of the Yunnan Bai, ensuring its enduring resonance and cultural vibrancy for generations to come.