With the desire to preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of the Hre ethnic minority group, local authorities and passionate individuals alike in the central province of Quang Ngai have taught younger generations how to play gongs and perform folk songs and dances.
Vietnam is not only a stunning destination for international tourists, thanks to its breathtaking mountains, forests, seas, and islands, but also boasts UNESCO-recognised world heritage items, encompassing both natural and cultural treasures. These cultural treasures have played a significant role in the country’s economic and social development, as they are considered valuable cultural resources.
In Kon Tum province in particular and the Central Highlands in general, many elderly people familiar with the gong culture have now died while younger local people prefer modern music. This is one of the main reasons behind gongs gradually disappearing, which prompted the Education Department of Kon Tum province to promote the teaching of gongs at schools.
With the passing of time, gongs have become an attractive and appealing symbol of the culture of the Central Highlands, associated with the cultural and spiritual lives and beliefs of local ethnic minority people.
To conserve the traditional culture and the unique characteristics of the Tay Nguyen Central Highlands, gong tuning artisans in Gia Lai province travel every village to keep the sounds of mountains and forest alive.
Localities in the Central Highlands received praise for their efforts over the last decade to preserve and promote the cultural practices surrounding the use of gongs.
