(VOVworld) Each ethnic group in Vietnam has a unique cultural identity that is expressed in its traditional. Pentatonic music is typical of the Khmer people in Vietnam. The  jubilant sound can be heard during Khmer festivals in the southern province of Soc Trang.

The traditional ensemble includes percussion and wind instruments

The local Khmer consider the 5-tone music an essential part of their life. Musician Ly Phat says the music was originally played only during religious rituals but has now become more commonplace in the community: “Khmer 5-tone music is played during traditional festivals, including the Ok Om Bok, the cotton offering ritual and many other festivals and communal events of joy and sorrow.”

Ly Phat says both men and women can perform the music if they have the patience to learn. The traditional ensemble includes percussion and wind instruments that use 5 materials, namely wood, brass, iron, leather and air. The Sampo drum is made from cow leather with 2 sides generating high and low tones. The Ronex is a percussion instrument with 26 wooden or bamboo bars attached in a long line. The ensemble also includes the Chhling gong and the Sro Lay flute.  Visitors who enjoy the 5-tone music are generally surprised to learn that the musicians are mostly famers. Nguyen Uyen, a Khmer musician, says: “Khmer customs could are preserved in our boat racing and 5-tone music. All pagodas in the region have their own 5-tone band thanks to local government support. We have organized free courses to teach young people how to play this music.”

Every melody is associated with prescribed actions performed on the stage. The sound of the instruments is enchanting and has the power to make people happy.  

Lan Anh