Songji Zhaxi- Inheritor of Guohzuang Dance in Qamdo, Tibet

Songji Zhaxi (松吉扎西) is a distinguished Tibetan artist born in 1938 in Qamdo (昌都), Tibet. He is the second batch representative inheritor of the Guohzuang Dance (锅庄舞) from Qamdo, which has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage (国家级非物质文化遗产). Known for his dedication to the preservation of Tibetan traditional dance, Songji Zhaxi is regarded as one of the most renowned Guohzuang artists in Qamdo and Tibet.

Inheritor Status

In 2008, Songji Zhaxi was officially recognized as one of the representative inheritors of the Guohzuang Dance (锅庄舞) from Qamdo (昌都). His inheritor status encompasses two main aspects: dance teaching and festival performances. Through these efforts, he has significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of this traditional Tibetan dance form.

Artistic Career

Born in 1938 in Qamdo (昌都), Tibet, Songji Zhaxi developed a deep passion for Tibetan folk dance at an early age. He mastered the techniques of Qamdo Guohzuang dance, focusing particularly on the two distinctive techniques: the slow-paced graceful movements (“慢板舒展”) and the fast-paced energetic movements (“快板奔放”). His performances are characterized by a combination of flowing elegance and dynamic vigor.

As of 2022, Songji Zhaxi remains active in the field of cultural preservation and continues to serve as the organizer of Qamdo Guohzuang Dance troupes, leading regular performances and teaching sessions.

Features of Guohzuang Dance

Qamdo Guohzuang Dance (昌都锅庄舞) is one of the three major folk dances of Tibet, with distinct artistic features:

  1. Performance Format:

    • Dancers form a circle and perform in a clockwise direction, singing and dancing simultaneously.

  2. Movement Categories:

    • Slow-paced movements simulate the “tiger descending the mountain” and other animal forms, reflecting strength and grace.

    • Fast-paced movements express the “tiger descending the mountain” and the “eagle soaring”, conveying energetic and intense poses.

  3. Rhythm Variations:

    • The dance begins with a slow introduction and gradually transitions into fast-paced rhythms, creating a dynamic and lively atmosphere during performances.

Contributions to Heritage Preservation

Since 2008, Songji Zhaxi has been instrumental in promoting Qamdo Guohzuang Dance through various initiatives:

  • Organizing the annual “Kham Culture and Arts Festival” (康巴文化艺术节), where local communities participate in Guohzuang Dance performances.

  • In 1990, he mentored the performer Zeren Nima (泽仁尼玛), teaching him the singing and dancing techniques associated with the dance.

  • His efforts have led to the widespread transmission of this dance, making Qamdo Guohzuang a prominent cultural expression in Tibet and beyond.

Through consistent teaching, performances, and involvement in cultural festivals, Songji Zhaxi has ensured the continuation and vitality of Guohzuang Dance, helping it gain further recognition and appreciation.

Recognition and Impact

In 2001, Qamdo County (昌都县) was officially designated as the “Home of Guohzuang Dance” (锅庄艺术之乡), with Songji Zhaxi playing a pivotal role as the core inheritor. His artistic achievements have been recognized and included in various official platforms, such as the China Intangible Cultural Heritage Digital Museum (中国非物质文化遗产数字博物馆), symbolizing his contribution to the living transmission of Tibetan dance traditions.

Songji Zhaxi’s legacy continues to serve as a model for the preservation of Tibetan folk dance, ensuring that this rich cultural heritage will be passed down to future generations.