K'long Put

This musical instrument was intended for women. The name klong put of Xo Dang origin has become the common name of this woodwind musical instruments depicted to the right. It is played by ethnic groups in Tay Nguyen, such as the Xo Dang, Ba Na, Gia Rai, Hre, etc.


The k'long put is made of a set of 2 to 12 bamboo tubes. Each tube has a length ranging from 60 to 200cm and a diameter ranging from 5 to 8cm. The tubes are either opened at one end or at both ends. When played, the tubes are laid horizontally and the player must either stand with her back bent or kneel while clapping her hands to push air into the tubes to produce sounds. Generally, each tube produces only one tone. However, some ethnic groups use the hand to block one end of the tube to produce some different pitches. With this technique, a two tube k'long put can produce four or five pitches.

According to a legend, this instrument is the residence of Mother Rice (goddess). Therefore, it is closely associated with agricultural production, being played exclusively by women on the field and at specific festivities, such as eating new rice, closing the rice storage house, welcoming the New Year, etc. The number of k'long put melodies is somewhat limited. This instrument has been brought to stage by professional artists who perform various pieces.

(Source: Vietnam National Administration of Tourism)