More Discussions of the Lo Lo Kettledrum

Abstract

This article presents the current use of the kettledrum in a Lo Lo village in Lung Cu commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. According to the author’s survey, the Lo Lo kettledrum is an unusual drum, because it connects the spiritual life and the sacred rituals of the Lo Lo people. The Lo Lo drums exist in their legends, folklore, folk-songs and proverbs. Unfortunately, the traditional culture of the Lo Lo in general and their music in particular is quickly erased due the impacts of Doi moi. In reality, many of the traditional music instruments including the clarinet, flute, and two-sting violin have already vanished. The Lo Lo kettledrums have traditionally been used for ritual ceremonies are broadening out to include a broader function.