The space of gong culture in Central Highlands of Viet Nam covers 5 provinces of Kon Turn, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong and Lam Dong. The masters of gong culture are the ethnic groups of Ba Na, Xo Dang, M’Nong, Co Ho, Ro Mam, E De, Giarai… The gong performances are always closely tied to community cultural rituals and ceremonies of the ethnic groups in Central Highlands. Many researchers have classified gongs as ceremonial musical instrument and the gong sounds as a means to communicate with deities and gods.
The gongs are made of bronze. Their diameter is from 20cm to 60cm or from 90cm to 120cm. A set of gongs consists of 2 to 12 or 13 units and even to 18 or 20 units in some places.
In most of the ethnic groups, namely Giarai, Ede, Kpah, Ba Na, Xo Dang, Brau, Co Ho, etc., only males are allowed to play gongs. However, in others such as Ma and M’Nong groups, both males and females can play gongs. However, in others such as Ma and M’Nong groups, both males and females can play gongs. Few ethnic groups (for example, E De Bih), gongs are performed by women only.
1. The Gong is the cultural heritage of only one ethnic groups. ………….
2. The Gong is used in special commural activities. …………
3. The gong is be made of only one type of material. …………..
4. There are some different sizes for a gong. ……….
5. Im M’Nong groups, women are not allowed to play the gong. ……………
1, F
2, T
3, F
4, T
5, F