Fuzhou Chi Yi is a traditional form of singing and performance that is prevalent in Fuzhou, Minhou, and other regions of Fujian Province that has spread with Fuzhou people living in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Indonesia, and other nations.

Fuzhou folk singing is based on Geyang Qiang and Kun Qiang and was founded in the Jiaing reign of theMing Dynasty (1369-1644). During theTaiping Heavenly Kingdomperiod (1851-1864) refugees from Zhejiang, Anhui, and Jiangxi provinces flocked to Fujian Province. Fuzhou Chi Yi performers made a living by singing from door to door.

Fuzhou Chi Yi was performed in the Fuzhou dialect with one or two people playing theerhuor sanxian.

The popularity of Chi Yi declined after the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1937-1945). Some government departments provided support and aid to revive the traditional folk art.

With the decrease in performances and singers, Fuzhou Chi Yi is in danger of dying out this century, and needs support and protection.

Source: chinaculture.org