The provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism on December 24 organised a conference to report on the results of collecting, researching, restoring, and preserving "Bi doi”, a musical instrument of the airophonic family and a traditional instrument of the Muong ethnic people in Da Bac district.
Delegates watch documentary on the technique of
crafting and the art of performing "Bi doi” of the Muong people in Da Bac.
The delegates watched a documentary showcasing the results
of the "Bi doi" collection and documentation as well as the technique
of crafting and the art of performing the instrument.
"Bi doi” is a unique musical instrument of the Muong people
in Da Bac district who also refer to it as "Pi Toi” or "Pi Doi”. It is used
during festive occasions, celebrations, and Tet holidays, and in the
storytelling time after long hours of hard work. "Bi doi” has become an
indispensable instrument, embodying the spirit and essence of Muong ethnic
minorities.
In its efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage
of ethnic minorities in the province, the department has undertaken the
collection, research, and restoration of the methods for finding materials,
crafting, and teaching the instrument. The goal is to preserve and promote its
cultural value, while also developing tourism services, and fostering
socio-economic, and cultural development in the locality.
This effort is part of the project to preserve the cultural
heritage of the Muong ethnic group and the "Hoa Binh Civilisation,"
thus contributing to affirming the position, role, and profound significance of
traditional musical instruments in the cultural life of the group, and raise
awareness about the importance of preserving and promoting the "Bi doi” instrument.
At the conference, delegates from various departments,
agencies and the district, and artisans contributed their opinions on the
results of the collection and documentation of this instrument, as well as
measures to preserve and promote local cultural heritage.
The Muong group is one of the largest ethnic minorities in Vietnam, primarily found in Hoa Binh province. The Muong people in Hoa Binh boast a rich and diverse cultural treasure that reflects the unique identity of this ethnic group. Accounting for over 63% of the province's population, they have created and preserved numerous distinctive cultural values, contributing to their unique identity. Their cultural heritage is an invaluable asset, at the heart of their national identity, and represents a vibrant spiritual life that must be preserved and promoted in today’s modern world.
For generations, the ethnic communities of Hoa Binh province, particularly the Muong people, have preserved vibrant festivals deeply intertwined with the region’s geography, nature, and social traditions. These celebrations enrich Hoa Binh’s spiritual life and cultural identity, reflecting both folk beliefs and the intermingling of ethnic customs. Many of these festivals have endured the test of time, passed down through generations and continuing to thrive today. Among them, the Khai Ha (Going Down to the Field) festival stands out as one of the most significant events of the Muong ethnic group.
Muong calendar, known as sach doi, is an ancient folk knowledge system developed through observations of the movement of the pleiades star. This unique calendar consists of 12 bamboo sticks, each representing a lunar month. Specific days within each month are marked with distinct symbols, guiding locals in determining auspicious and inauspicious days for important activities.
Authorities and residents of Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau district, are making efforts to preserve and promote the historical value of a centuries-old gold apple tree (scientifically known as diospyros decandra lour), which has been recognised as a national heritage tree.
Hoa Binh is home to two types of Dong Son drums: Heger I and Heger II. These drums date back from the 4th century BC to the 5th century AD.
Mo is a term referring to a profession and cultural heritage which integrates folk beliefs with folk culture and arts. Practiced at funerals and religious rituals by the Muong ethnic people, it aims to provide spiritual comfort during significant life events such as illness and death.
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