Lac Thinh commune, Yen Thuy district, is home to 1,635 households, of which 82% are ethnic minorities, mainly Muong people. In recent years, the commune has prioritised to developing cultural clubs, aiming to both enrich the community's spiritual life and preserve traditional cultural values.


Artist Quach Thi Kieu (left) guides and teaches Muong gong playing techniques to club members.

With the view that "people stay alive when their culture stay alive,the local authorities have paid heed to preserving and promoting the Muong folk cultural identity. In this spirit, the Women's Union of Lac Thinh commune has encouraged residents to wear traditional Muong attire during festivals and community events. They also established two cultural preservation clubs in Trac and Dinh Van hamlets.

With 31 members when founded in 2021, the Trac hamlet club now has 49, including both male and female artisans. It maintains practices of traditional Muong music, dance, and cultural performances every Saturday and Sunday. These activities have garnered attention from professional units at district and provincial levels. The club has been invited to participate in numerous cultural exchanges and festivals, including performances for Vietnam's national television.

Quach Thi Kieu, head of the Trac hamlet club, explained that members are taught to play traditional Muong instruments, sing folk songs, and perform Muong dances. The club also holds workshops on traditional brocade weaving and the significance of traditional Muong clothing.

In November 2022, recognising the success of the Trac hamlet club, the communal Women's Union established anotherclub in Dinh Van hamlet, with 45 members. The club has been actively involved in local cultural exchanges, festivals, and workshops, helping to preserve and promote Muog traditions.

The establishment and development of the club model are of significance in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage value, thus creating best possible conditions for ethnic people to directly engage in protection and promotion as well as enjoy results of these activities. foster a sense of community, ensuring that cultural traditions are passed down to future generations.

 


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