Viet Nam

Bi Doi

Double-oboe

The solo of Bi doi

Reasons for selection

Bi doi is unique in its sound and structure, and its use in courtship context is particularly fascinating.

Area where performed

The Bi doi is performed only in Da Bac, Hoa Binh province.

Essential elements of the performing art

Music

Detailed explanation

The Characteristics
Bi doi is a double-reed instrument belonging to the aerophone family. Bi doi is made by binding together two node-less bamboo pipes of 27.5 cm in length, 0.5 cm in diameter. Each pipe has 7 holes on one side and 1 hole on the other side. Two pipes always produce unison when blown.

When and where do they perform?
Bi doi is used primarily in courtship context. It is also used either as a solo instrument or part of an ensemble. The Bi doi is a musical instrument for men who play them on the way to the field or their girlfriend's house.

History
The Bi doi has been closely connected with the Muong culture for a long time.

Publication and textual documentation

Le Huy, Minh Hien
1994 Nhac cu truyen thong Viet Nam Traditional Instruments of Viet Nam .
Ho Chi Minh: The Gioi Publisher.

Audio documentation

Collection of Vietnam Musicology Institute.

Visual documentation

Collection of Vietnam Musicology Institute.

Institution/organisation involved in preservation and promotion

Department of Information and Culture of Hoa Binh province.

Data provider

Dang Hoanh Loan
Vice Director
Vietnam Musicology Institute
Address: 32 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Dinh district,
Ha Noi, Viet Nam