Musical Instruments
of Ethnic Groups in the Golden Triangle

Instrumental music is richly represented in the ethnic groups of Southeast Asia, revealing an extraordinary profusion of techniques, styles, compositions. Instruments are fashioned in a variety of shapes and sizes from natural elements of the earth—wood, bamboo, gourd, vine, beeswax, metal, horn, tusk, bone, leather, and leaf. It is for this that each instrument—wind, string, and percussion—creates special aural colors, able to stir the heart, awaken the mind, and shake the body

The sounds of instrumental music are woven into every aspect of secular and sacred life, as they accompany singing, express deep feelings, animate dancing, speak to spirits, honor deities, and lead each person through the cycles of life. Every musical performance is full of purpose, full of meaning.