The number of people who are interested in Lao traditional musics is decreasing day by day. It is hard to see young people who can play Lao traditional music these days. What will happen to our music culture in the future, if we do not start preserve it and practice it?


 A Vientiane man is so passionate about traditional music that he is spending his own money to encourage more people to learn to play Lao instruments. Mr Hansana Sisane uses his own resources to employ a teacher and buy musical instruments for students to learn for free at the Lao-Japan Traditional Culture Education Centre in Nongthatai village, Chanthabouly district. He is currently funding eight students to learn about traditional music and instruments.
 
“My students now can play a wide variety of traditional and folk songs, from Japan, Laos and other countries,” he said. “They come to the centre every week to practise for a few hours with a Lao teacher.” One of the musical instruments used at the centre is a traditional xylophone handed down to Mr Hansana from his father, who was widely regarded as an excellent singer, composer and instrumentalist. “Even though my father was a very talented singer, I’m completely different and didn’t inherit any of his talents,” he said. “I can’t play traditional instruments or sing, but I think my children, nephews and nieces have inherited some musical talent from my father.” Mr Hansana urged teachers involved in teaching traditional Lao dances and other cultural activities to become involved and teach at the centre.

Some of his friends have retired from the Ministry of Information and Culture, so he persuaded them to assist him in teaching students not only about traditional music but also other cultures and customs. “These teachers are excellent tutors and very knowledgeable, but they are getting old, so I think it is important for them to share their valuable knowledge with younger generations,” he said.

Mr Hansana hopes to encourage young people to gain an understanding and appreciation for traditional music and instruments, while also discouraging them from becoming involved in antisocial behaviour such as drug use and crime. Six Lao students recently undertook training at the centre before going to Japan for a 20-day study tour. Mr Hansana welcomes anyone interested in learning about traditional music and customs to attend the centre. He is also the owner of the Lao Textile Museum, which is located near the centre.

laosmile