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Introduction to the bell dance of the Yi ethnic group

The bell dance of the Yi ethnic group is also called "Kenhebei" in Yi language, which means the farewell dance of spirits. It is a traditional folk dance performed by the Yi people in sacrificial halls. This dance retains its complete form in Hezhang, especially in Hezhang Zhushi Township. The bell dance has a continuous singing and dancing style. The dancers sing first and then dance, alternating with singing and dancing. The dance has no musical accompaniment. The movements are unified by drum beats and the ringing of the copper bells in the hands of the dancers. The suona is only used for intervals. Through sacrificial activities, we dance "Ken He Bai" and sing sacrificial ritual songs to fulfill the filial piety of our descendants, pay homage to the deceased and comfort the living. The content of the bell dance is the traditional production and life scenes of the Yi people. After artistic treatment, the content is healthy and the style is simple. Since the Yi people have the custom of singing and dancing at weddings and funerals, and the bell dance is widely popular among the masses, it has been passed down from generation to generation and remains intact in its original state. The original bell dance of the Yi ethnic group was only performed by men, but now due to the updated concept, women have also joined in, and the scene is not limited. It can be performed during festivals, celebrations, and during leisure time. On June 7, 2008, the Yi bell dance was approved by the State Council to be included in the second batch of national intangible cultural heritage list.