ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an analysis of recent challenges and tensions surrounding ongoing transmission of the important big song genre amongst Kam minority villagers in south-eastern Guizhou province, highlighting particular issues likely to influence the future of this genre. It illustrates some of the complexities regarding both continuity and change within this musical tradition. It provides examples of ways that the broader promotion of this genre - also when included in large-scale staged performances and as intangible cultural heritage - both sustains and challenges its future. The chapter focuses upon two main areas, both related to village transmission. First, it demonstrates the pivotal role of cultural custodians themselves in any efforts to ensure so-called 'cultural preservation'. Second, it examines the formats for performances that are currently popular as a result of the situation regarding these factors, and illustrates how big song performance formats are influencing the future form of the tradition for its cultural custodians, Kam villagers.
