The Grand Song of the Dong people, or “Gal Laox” in the Dong language, is an indispensable part of their culture. Dong songs have been used as a means to tell stories and express emotions for more than 2,500 years.
The Grand Song is made up of multiple people singing different harmonies and require no conductor or musical accompaniment. Performing the song require at least three singers, and the more singers, the better the effect.
Dong choir performances and competitions are arranged on festivals or to welcome honored guests. These occasions also offer a good chance for young men and women to get to know each other or possibly even fall in love through the singing activities.
The Dong people did not have a writing system until they adopted simplified Chinese characters within the last few centuries. Instead, their songs were a way of communicating and passing down stories from generation to generation.
The imitation of natural sounds, such as the chirps and tweets of birds and the sound of flowing water are an integral part of Dong songs, reflecting their close association with nature.
The songs are mainly about nature, love, friendship, and labor, creating a harmonious and friendly atmosphere for Dong people and giving them a sense of peace and calm
The Grand Song consists of three parts--prologue, body and epilogue, and writing techniques, such as metaphor, are usually employed in the lyrics.
