In a globalizing world, how can we preserve our distinct local cultures?
There are different and unique cultures in Taiwan. Before the Han
immigration in the 17th century, the ancestors of Taiwanese aborigines
have been living in Taiwan for more than 8000 years. So far there are 14
recognized tribes, and many other unrecognized ones.
Last year, I went to Naitou county, and thus know something about Bunun
tribe and culture. Except for their hunting skills, I also like their culture
very much especially their songs very much. They have a very famous choir
called “Music of Bunun Tribe.”
There are eight different tones (parts) in their songs (singing) and it’s for
celebrating their abundant millet harvest. It is very beautiful and awesome,
when I listen to their eight part harmonic singing. It is a very special
culture, which also drew the attention of the UNESCO of the United
Nations.
But unfortunately there are few people know that.
For me, I always tell my friends even foreign friends how beautiful there
(the Bunun harmonic singing is). So, I think government should set up some
rules for them to keep their traditional cultures. (the government and
people here in Taiwan have to make more efforts to preserve our distinct
local cultures.)