Cambodian traditional musical instruments

Despite the concerted effort by Pol Pot in the 1970s to eliminate all culture – film, literature and music – in an effort to reinvent society from the ground up, the traditions of music survived. Twenty years ago this was apparent in tourist areas with the presence of blind musicians playing in small ensembles. A local told me that I was perfectly within my rights to not give money to beggars – but in the case of musicians, I was told, a donation (and a purchase of their CD) was the right thing to do.

Roneat thung

The roneat thung or roneat thum (Khmer: រនាតធុង) is a low-pitched xylophone used in the classical music of Cambodia. It is built in the shape of a curved, rectangular shaped boat and the bars that are struck are made either of bamboo, hardwoods or – these days – metal. This instrument plays an important part in the typical ensemble called the “Pinpeat” ensemble. (See bottom right the stamps below. )

The roneat thung is used to begin a tune, laying down melody and beat for the other musicians to follow.

Over time I will introduce you to the other instruments in the ensemble but meanwhile have a listen to a solo performance. I loved the woody sound. The Youtube clip is composed and played by Prak Englean.