Monks tune up to keep musical tradition alive
Print Edition
Clad in crimson-colored robes, Trinley Gyatso conducts a group of young Tibetan lamas as they test out a solemn new song for a band that has been in existence for some 300 years.
“The note on the gong should be lower,” he instructs one musician.
The monks belong to the Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan buddhism. Located in northwestern China’s Gansu province, Labrang is the most important monastery outside the Tibetan Autonomous Region.
“We practice our music skills on a regular basis. Ahead of important occasions, we practice about eight hours every day,” Gyatso, the man in charge of the Daode’er Music Band.
“Summertime is a busy practice time, because in winter, when the weather is dry and harsh, the instruments may crack if played too often.”
Labrang’s musical tradition was listed as a national cultural heritage in 2008.
Founded in the 18th century, the Daode’er band is usually reserved for important occasions, such as preaching, banquets, religious parades and the arrival of distinguished guests.
Using pipes, gongs and flutes specially made for their style of music, the band strikes grand and solemn notes.
Currently, it consists of 24 members, but its size can change depending on occasions. In recent years, it has reached global audiences, receiving invitations to visit France, the United States, Canada, Britain, Belgium and other countries.
“Our first overseas performance was in France in 1997. It was a total success,” said 73-year-old Gyasto, who has been a band member for around 50 years.
Gyatso said the band has received help from companies to record their music and sell discs online to overseas audiences.
“We pray for happiness, harmony and peace with our music,” Gyatso says.
Tanzin Gonpo, a 31-year-old local resident, has watched the band play since he was young.
“The music has special power. It can inspire mercy and benevolence in people’s hearts,” he said.
Tradition stipulates that band players can only be monks from Labrang.
Every year, Gyatso selects young monks who have some interest in music. New recruits have to learn to play all the instruments, and recite religious scriptures to improve their understanding of the music.
It will be at least two years before they can take part in a public performance.
“We have only recruited four new players in the past three years. I hope more younger monks can play and carry on the music tradition,” Gyatso said.
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