To preserve mountain folk music

For the purpose of conservation andTo promote the musical identity of the Thai, Mong, and Kho Mu ethnic groups in Nghe An, the Institute of Music recently coordinated with the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to organize a number of folk music and dance classes in Ky Son and Con Cuong districts.

The target audience is mainly teenagers. Up to now, it can be said that the goals and requirements set for the basic classes have been achieved, but to preserve the musical identity in a sustainable way, there is still much work to be done.

Art performance by the Ky Son District Mass Art Troupe.

The problem we raise in this article is the preservation and transmission of folk songs, folk dances and traditional musical instruments after the course ends. Because the class takes place in a relatively short time (according to the plan is 15 days, then some classes are extended to 1 month), this period of time is only enough for students to get acquainted but not to be able to receive performance skills proficiently. Therefore, after the end of the course, if they do not practice regularly, it is very likely that students will completely forget the skills they have received. Especially for today's young generation who are dominated by modern media, in addition to the increasing pressure of life, the work of preserving and maintaining musical identity becomes more and more difficult. At this point, the time, effort and money spent will become wasted and useless.

In our opinion, after accepting the results, the Department of Culture and authorities at all levels need to organize the establishment of Folk Song and Traditional Instrument Clubs and allocate a certain amount of funds to ensure that these Clubs operate regularly. The Board of Directors of the Clubs should plan regular practice and performance, purchase additional musical instruments and costumes, and organize exchanges with other units. At the same time, on holidays, the grassroots cultural staff should organize festivals, cultural and artistic exchanges, and encourage traditional performances. The above actions will contribute to creating motivation to help people love their ethnic cultural heritage more, thereby ensuring the preservation and promotion of national musical identity in a sustainable and effective manner.

Cong Kien