In the mountainous province of Lao Cai, the H’mong people continue to preserve many unique aspects of their cultural heritage. Among them, the khen—a traditional bamboo wind instrument—is more than just a musical tool. It is the voice of the mountains, the soul of the Hmong people, and a link between past, present, and future. To keep the khen alive, generations of Hmong have carefully protected and passed down this tradition.
Khen (panpipe), a traditional musical instrument, holds a vital place in the daily lives of the Mong ethnic people in the northern mountainous province of Lai Chau. Over the years, the enchanting sound of Khen has been cherished and passed down within the Mong ethnic community.
The Mong ethnic minority people in the northern mountainous province of Yen Bai are glowing with pride after their “khen” (panpipe) was recognised recently as a national intangible cultural heritage.
Khen (panpipes) plays a significant role in the culture and spiritual life of the Mong ethnic minority people in the northernmost province of Ha Giang. People have therefore spared no effort to make khen and teach younger generations how to play the instrument.
Music is a fundamental element in creating an ecstatic, joyous and festive atmosphere for the performance of Xòe dances. The harmonious combination of drums, gongs, khen, and other instruments has captivated many visitors.
Although modern culture has been present in every corner of mountainous hamlets, the passion for melodies of Khen (panpine) has never ceased among men of the Mong ethnic group.
