Dance of the Yao People
"Dance of the Yao People" is a captivating orchestral masterpiece representing 20th-century China, composed by Mao Yuan and Liu Tieshan, inspired by the culture of the Yao ethnic minority in Hunan and Yunnan provinces.
This evocative composition draws from the traditional Yao tribe music, known as the "Long-Drum Dance". It paints a vivid picture of China's landscape awakening during harvest festivals, with elderly voices humming melancholic melodies, young dancers in splendid traditional attire, and the joyous laughter of children playing with toy whistles. The music gracefully transitions from lively celebrations to poignant moments, creating a mesmerizing journey that culminates in a grand, breathtaking finale.
The recording is a live performance by the Hong Kong Youth Handbell Ensemble.