The history and innovation of the melodic declamation art of ethnic minorities in Northeast China

For several centuries, numerous ethnic minorities (including Han Chinese, Manchus, Mongols, etc.) have resided in the northeastern part of China. Due to the vast territory, low population density, and prolonged breaks in agricultural activities, representatives of these ethnic groups showed a great interest in creativity. The northeastern region is characterized by a distinctive way of life and specific national beliefs, which led to the formation of relatively unified folklore traditions, customs, language, and culture that have undergone a long evolutionary path. The regional culture under consideration was influenced by historical events and the specific natural environment of the Northeast region, resulting in the acquisition of unique local features. This paper examines the history and cultural heritage of the ancient ethnic minorities of China’s northeastern region in the field of vocal art (melodeclamation). It is shown that melodeclamation is an integral system that combines word, music, and transmission. The current state of this heritage in the region is analyzed. It is revealed that the art of melodeclamation in this region possesses unique characteristics. It is proven that the unique natural environment of the Northeast has shaped a distinct musical culture of melodeclamation. It is noted that in the modern era of digitalization, informatization, and cultural diversity, when a vast number of different art forms operate both domestically and internationally, it is important to understand the ways to preserve and develop the art of melodeclamation as a special form of China’s cultural heritage. In this regard, the article holds significant practical and scientific importance.