Khmu singing and mouth organs from Northern Laos

Wednesday 29 June, 18:00, Auditorium 250 - On reservation only

Speakers of an Austroasiatic language dwelling in Northern Laos provinces, the Khmu have a unique vocal technique called Teum. This vocal genre with an extraordinary colour is based on quick and chained transitions between two registers (head voice and chest voice), in a very rich alternating of timbres. Teum are improvised songs on themes of courting and romance, but also on the basis of local mythical motifs, or everyday anecdotes. They are sung along with one or several mouth organs (khene), signature instrument of the Lao musical landscape.

This exceptional performance brings together Khmu singers, musicians and dancers from Laos, touring in France for the very first time this spring. The performance will be introduced by ethnomusicologist Véronique de Lavenère (Sorbonne-Université and Centre Asie du Sud-Est).

Viengthong Buon Pa Sert, Phone Ma Ny and Hem Syla Tan : vocals
Champa Kham Khengsy : vocals and khene
Don Yuang In Sy : khene
Som Pheng and Tim : khene and aerophones
Son : vocals
Véronique de Lavenère : musical and artistic direction
Leuthmany Insisiengmay : artistic counceler
Baptiste de Lavenère : set designer
Laurent Maza : technical direction

Produced by Association Chant de Balles
Co-produced by Musée des Confluences, Maison des Cultures du Monde and Musée du Quai Branly
With support from DRAC Ile-de-France, Région Ile-de-France and Conseil Départemental de l’Essonne