Comparative Analysis of Folk Song Styles in The Huizhou Region

Abstract

The folk songs of the Huizhou region in Guangdong Province, China, are richly diverse and embody the area's profound cultural heritage. This study examines three distinct regional folk songs: the Huiyang Jiege, Ruhu Fishing Song, and Huidong Fishermen's Song, aiming to delineate their musical styles and cultural expressions and how they mirror the local culture. Utilizing both questionnaire surveys and in-depth interviews, this research engages with 326 residents and 16 cultural experts from various counties within Huizhou City. The study methodically evaluates the artistic features of these folk songs—including melody, theme, and lyrics—and investigates their transmission in contemporary times. The findings reveal that while these songs stem from a common cultural background, they exhibit distinct regional traits in their expression and social roles. For instance, the Huiyang Jiege is noted for its simple structure, whereas the Ruhu Fishing Song and Huidong Fishermen's Songs focus more on emotional expression and social interaction. The study advocates for enhanced local government support and collaborative research initiatives with universities. Additionally, it suggests leveraging modern media technologies to promote and preserve these folk songs as vital cultural assets. By thoroughly analyzing these locally distinctive folk songs, this research contributes to the academic field of ethnomusicology and offers valuable insights into the preservation and perpetuation of regional culture.