1 Audio file
Bhutanese folk music is characterized by its melodic tunes and often accompanies various cultural events, celebrations, and traditional dances like the mask dances (Cham).
Bhutanese folk music is the heart and soul of the country's cultural expression. With its melodic tunes and traditional instruments like the dranyen and chiwang, it accompanies vibrant festivals, dances, and everyday life. These songs, sung in Dzongkha, often narrate tales of love, nature, and daily experiences, resonating with Bhutan's rich heritage and community spirit. Folk music is more than just melodies; it's a reflection of Bhutanese identity and traditions.
Traditional Music Matters in Bhutan: Sonam Dorji at TEDxThimphu
Sonam Dorji is the Director for the Music of Bhutan Research Center. Sonam is a master musician, vocalist, and composer who plays several instruments native to Bhutan and India.
The Music of Bhutan Research Center (MBRC) was founded in Thimphu in late 2008 to document, preserve, and promote the traditional music of Bhutan.
He talks about the importance of traditional Bhutanese music and dance in Bhutanese culture, and importance of preserving traditional Bhutanese music for future generations.
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)