Since the second half of the 20th century, the Vietnamese bamboo flute has travelled to friends throughout the world with the marvellous performances of artists. And in the following, let’s see how this instrument comes to life, enchants and thus, has been preserved by younger generations in Vietnam.
Have you ever heard of or witnessed with your own eyes the longest flute in Vietnam? It is a 2.03 meter-long flute and provides perfectly deep sounds. More interestingly, this unique flute belongs to Nguyen Van Mao, who is also known as Mao Meo. Many people are interested and curious about Mao's creation, but this flute is only part of his 20,000 flute collection.
Nguyen Van Mao, Young Flute Artist said: When I was a child, my father taught me how to play the bamboo flute. I was deeply impressed with the instrument. The more I listened to its melodies, the more I wanted to learn about it. It has been 20 years since then.
The melodious sounds of bamboo flutes remind Mao of his hometown, which is located in the Central province of Nghe An. This somehow explains his relationship with the instrument on his journey through life.
His love for the bamboo flutes encouraged him to find people with a common interest. Mao established the Northern Flute Club 4 years ago, and since then has captured the eyes of thousands of youngsters. It has also paved the way for the establishment of many other smaller flute clubs in Hanoi and nationwide. Mao is also the founder and chairman of saotruc.vn, the biggest forum of its kind for flute lovers in Vietnam.
"I go to the club meetings every Sunday morning. It helps me relax after a week full of work and stress. I've learnt a lot from other club members.", said Phan Van Hung, Flute Player
"This passion has encouraged these youngsters to get involved in the bamboo craft. This workshop has 10 young workers who are all experienced flute players and keen to preserve this traditional instrument.", Nguyen Van Mao added.
The bamboo undergoes a complicated process which includes 25 different steps. There are some main compulsory stages: Collect and select the materials, bend the flutes, touch them down, equalize the sounds and finishing touches.
Pham Van Trinh, Flute Maker said: "Collecting and selecting the materials is the most important step because the flute’s quality relies much on the materials. For example, the materials decide the thickness, durability and diameter of the flute."
Thanks to the joint efforts made by these young artisans, bamboo flutes made by MãoMèo have been a renowned trademark for bamboo lovers nationwide. Now, his flutes are sold in many provinces across Vietnam and over 20 countries. The bamboo flutes represent the will of this young man to live his dream.
The flutes from childhood inspire him live his own dreams. As young people look for modern entertainment today, the bamboo flute seems to be left behind. However, Mao and these youngsters follow their own path, representing their love for this traditional musical instrument. /.
