Miao Ancient Ballads

Miao Ancient Ballads are oral narrative epics passed down through generations, celebrated as the “encyclopedia” of ancient Miao society. They are primarily preserved in Miao-inhabited regions such as Guizhou and Hunan. Historically lacking a written language, the Miao relied on these ancient songs as the core medium for recording their history and preserving cultural memory. Their content spans the cosmos' birth, the origins of all things, the great flood, and the Miao's great migration, encompassing a vast array of subjects. Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, these songs are not only a treasure of folk literature but also carry the Miao's astronomical calendars, ethical values, philosophical ideas, and knowledge of production and daily life.

The ancient song system is vast, often comprising chapters such as “Creation of Heaven and Earth,” “Maple Wood Song,” “Great Flood,” and “Crossing Mountains and Rivers.” Performances typically occur during significant occasions like drum society rituals, weddings, funerals, festivals, and family gatherings, sung by middle-aged and elderly song masters and shamans through question-and-answer song formats. Ancient songs possess immense multifaceted value, serving as “oral historical records” for studying ancient Miao history, society, and culture. They hold significant importance for strengthening ethnic identity and promoting ethnic unity.