2. Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a sovereign state in Southeast Asia
bordered by China, Thailand, India, Laos and Bangladesh. It became a colony of the
British Empire in the 19th century.
Myanmar is a country where magnificent and ancient Buddhist temples gaze out
serenely over a nation restless for change. It has plenty of beautiful site, life-giving
rivers, lush mountain forests, and intricately-drawn cities-but it can also trouble the
soul. For the last 30 years, its people have been ruled by notoriously repressive
military government, the tatmadaw.
The music of Myanmar has similarities with and is related to many other musical
traditions in the region, including Chinese, Thai and Indian music. It is melodious and
without harmony. It is more instrumental than vocal.
Burmese traditional music is lively yet graceful. Frequently relying on sudden
contrasts and with touches of whimsy melodies.
3. The following music of Myanmar is used in various social functions:
1. Byaw – often played at religious festivals and is sung to the beat
of a long and thin drum
2. Pat pyo – court music
3. Iwan Chin –songs of longing
4. Bole - songs of sorrow
4. Musical Ensembles
Burmese classical music ensembles can be classified into outdoor and indoor
ensembles.
1. Hsaing waing – is a traditional Burmese folk indoor ensemble, consisting of a
number of different gongs and drums. It is characterized by its lively and sudden
contrasts and shift in rhythm, melody, and tempo.
5. Sidaw – is an outdoor musical ensemble used in royal courts that marks
important ceremonial functions like the royal ploughing ceremony.
6. Musical Instruments
Burmese classical instruments are grouped into the materials they are made of: air-
based, leather-based, metal-based, string-based, and clappers.
Saung Gauk – This is the
national instrument of
Myanmar. It is a 13-stringed
angular harp that has a soft
sound. It is used to
accompany the Mahagita ( a
classical song of Myanmar).
7. Hne – It is Myanmar’s
Traditional oboe. It has a reed
made from fan palms while
the body is made of wood.
Ka si – This is a kettle drum also
known as the “frog drum” that
is used to summon rain.
