Preservation Literacy in Yi Ethnic Wedding Folk Songs by Axi Axi

This study explores the preservation literacy and cultural transmission of Yi ethnic wedding folk songs, focusing on the contributions of Axi Axi, Through a combination of fieldwork, this research examines how Axi Axi has safeguarded, revitalized, and disseminated Yi wedding folk songs, ensuring their continued relevance in contemporary society. Yi wedding folk songs are the crying wedding tune, which serves as an emotional and ritualistic expression of a bride’s transition into marriage, and the narrative tune, which functions as a medium for historical storytelling and cultural continuity. Axi Axi’s vocal mastery, including her modal and falsetto transitions and improvisation, has been essential in preserving these traditions' emotional depth and authenticity. Her mentoring of young singers and utilizing digital platforms demonstrate how modern tools can effectively complement oral transmission. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on ethnomusicology, cultural sustainability, and the evolving role of folk music in a globalized world.