Rhythms of the Drum: Song of the Cicada

Birds nest in trees, fish swim in rivers, Miao live in mountains. 

One of largest ethnic minority groups in China there is estimated to be between eight million to nine million Miao people.  More geographically disperse than the Dong people, the region of Guizhou is a heartland where the strong folkloric tradition focused on singing, dancing, and the playing of some unique instruments, continues to inform daily life.
Miao traditional dress shows the local handiwork of embroidery on collars, cuffs, skirts and aprons but the most spectacular aspect of their appearance is the exquisite silver jewellery most of which is made by hand.  Spectacular silver headdresses, hats, horns, hair ornaments, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, bodices and more ensure a stunning appearance.
Miao people love singing and dancing and much of the traditional life of the villages is centred on these pursuits.  While the lusheng is most commonly played instrument used for both solo and group music, also widely played across the region are tree-leaves.