Explore Vietnamese Musical Instruments: 3 Main Types With Definition & Images

Traditional Vietnamese musical instruments are an integral part of the country’s cultural and historical heritage. From ancient rituals to modern stage performances, these instruments showcase the melody of the soul and the creativity of Vietnamese culture.

However, as the modern musical industry continues to grow, traditional music culture is declining in popularity and listeners. Therefore, understanding these instruments is crucial for musicians, historians, and cultural enthusiasts to explore and help preserve Vietnam’s musical beauty.

At YESD Social Enterprise, we aim to support the beauty and significance of Vietnam’s traditional musical instruments. In this blog, we will explore their history, the most common Vietnamese traditional instruments, and their cultural importance to the nation.

1. History of Vietnamese Musical Instruments

After almost two thousand years of development, Vietnamese musical instruments have evolved through the influence of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups and neighboring cultures, including China, India, and Champa. Archaeological findings, such as bronze drums from the Dong Son culture since 600 BC, indicate that music has been a vital part of Vietnamese life for more than 2000 years. In Vietnam, instruments were used in various contexts throughout its history, including religious ceremonies, festivals, and court performances.

As a matter of fact, Vietnamese musical instruments have been shaped by the country’s unique geography and multicultural interactions. For example, the introduction of the Pipa (Dan Ty Ba) and Guzheng (Dan Tranh) from China has greatly influenced Vietnamese string instruments. Meanwhile, indigenous groups in the Central Highlands have developed unique percussion and wind instruments to accompany their traditional dances and rituals.

2. Three Main Types of Vietnamese Musical Instruments

2.1 Vietnamese String Instruments

String instruments form the backbone of Vietnamese traditional music, offering melodies that touch the hearts and emotions of music enthusiasts. With delicate craftsmanship and distinctive sounds, these Vietnamese musical instruments are often used to tell stories or express emotions in traditional performances. Often played in traditional operas, folk music, and court music, these instruments reflect the depth and diversity of Vietnamese music.

2.1.1. Dan Bau (Monochord Zither): The Dan Bau is a monochord instrument capable of producing a memorable, ethereal sound. Played with a plectrum, it uses harmonics and pitch bending to create its distinct tones. Traditionally, it was associated with solo performances but is now featured in orchestras and contemporary music.

2.1.2. Dan Ty Ba (Four-stringed Pipa): This pear-shaped lute, adapted from the Chinese pipa, has four strings and a fretted neck. Its hauntingly versatile sound makes it suitable for both lyrical and dramatic compositions. The dan ty ba is commonly used in classical and folk music, particularly in “hat a dao” (Northern chamber music).

2.1.3. Dan Nguyet (Two-stringed Lute): Also known as the Moon Lute, this two-string instrument has a round body resembling a full moon. Its soft and melodious tones are ideal for accompanying poetry recitals and traditional opera in the South (“Tuong” and “Cai Luong”).

2.1.4. Dan Nhi (Two-stringed Fiddle): A two-stringed fiddle with a cylindrical wooden body, the dan nhi produces a soulful and expressive sound. It is widely used in folk music, including “Cheo” and “Quan Ho” performances in Bac Ninh, Vietnam.

2.1.5. Dan Tam Thap Luc (Hammered Dulcimer): The 36-string zither, similar to the Chinese guzheng, is played by plucking strings with finger picks. It is renowned for its bright and resonant sound, often used in ensemble settings.

2.2. Vietnamese Percussion Instruments

Percussion instruments are the ones that add active rhythm and festive energy to Vietnamese musical instruments. They show the dynamic beats and dramatic flair of the Vietnamese’s colorful nature, capturing the spirit of rituals, festivals, and people’s everyday lives. Often crafted with great care and designed to produce both subtle and powerful sounds, percussion instruments are essential for setting the mood in performances, celebrations, and storytelling.

2.2.1. Trong Com (Cylindrical drum): This cylindrical drum, also known as the “Rice Drum”, is named after the rice placed inside the instrument to adjust its tone. It is commonly played during festivals and celebratory events, symbolizing abundance and joy.

2.2.2. Cong Chieng (Gong): Gongs are central to the music of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, especially in the Central Highlands. These instruments are usually played in communal rituals to connect with the spiritual world.

2.2.3. T’rung (Bamboo Xylophone): A bamboo xylophone originating from the Central Highlands, the T’rung produces a light and melodic sound. It is often played in ensembles to accompany dances and storytelling.

2.3. Vietnamese Wind Instruments

Last but not least, the wind instruments complete the Vietnamese musical instruments with enchanting sounds that mimic nature’s melodies. Known for their vibrant tones, these instruments are crafted from local materials like bamboo and gourd, enhancing folk songs and ceremonial tunes with their soulful resonance. From natural melodies to energetic festivals, wind instruments play a crucial role in preserving Vietnamese musical instruments’ beauty.

2.3.1. Sao Truc (Bamboo Flute): The bamboo flute, or sao truc, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic instruments. Its clear and flowing sound mimics the melody of rural spring streams. It is widely featured in folk songs and modern compositions alike.

2.3.2. Ken bau (Oboe): This double-reed instrument has a penetrating and resonant tone. It is commonly used in ethnic minority groups’ ceremonies and theatrical performances, such as “Cheo” and “Tuong”.

3. The Significance of Traditional Instruments to Vietnamese Music

Traditional Vietnamese musical instruments are not just tools; they are cultural treasures. These Vietnamese musical instruments serve as living artifacts of Vietnam’s history and traditions, preserving the nation’s identity. Many modern musicians, like Soobin Hoang Son, are also artistically inspired by such musical instruments and have incorporated them into contemporary genres, creating a unique fusion of old and new.

Finally, these instruments are also widely played in communal settings, strengthening the community bonds of various ethnic groups. By studying and supporting traditional music, we can help ensure that Vietnam’s cultural heritage will continue to thrive for future generations.

Conclusion

Vietnamese musical instruments represent the heart and soul of the nation’s people. From the memorable tones of the Dan Bau to the rhythmic beats of the Trong Com, these instruments tell stories of resilience, creativity, and unity of the Vietnamese community.

To learn more about Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, check out our articles on Vietnamese festivals and traditional crafts.

To truly experience the essence of Vietnam’s music and culture, book YESD authentic tours and enjoy Vietnamese traditional music to the fullest.