In the latest installment of the beloved animated series, Ne Zha 2, the arrival of Ao Run, the majestic dragon queen of the West Sea, is accompanied by a mesmerizing backdrop — the Grand Song of the Dong.
The Grand Song of the Dong is a rich, polyphonic folk singing tradition rooted in the Dong ethnic group. This traditional form of music is performed unaccompanied, with singers from various villages coming together to create harmonious melodies that echo their history, beliefs, and customs.
Performed in the Dong language, which is an oral tradition without a written script, these songs are passed down through generations. They encompass a range of genres, including narrative tales, love songs, drinking tunes, and funeral chants, often enhanced by clapping, stomping, and dancing. The Grand Song is not just music; it is a vibrant expression of the Dong people's connection to nature and their collective wisdom.
By integrating the Grand Song of the Dong into Ne Zha 2, the filmmakers pay homage to cultural heritage and reinforce the narrative's emotional resonance. This fusion of traditional music and modern animation offers audiences a glimpse into the Dong community's vibrant cultural identity, highlighting the importance of preserving such age-old traditions in contemporary storytelling.
Reference(s):
The Kam Grand Choirs background music of Ao Run in 'Ne Zha 2'
cgtn.com
