What Makes Hmong Folk Singing So Hard to Learn?

Hmong folk singing is an ancient tradition that dates back thousands of years. In this episode of SoundField, host Arthur "LA" Buckner delves into the world of Hmong folk singing in Minneapolis with artists Tiffany and Gaosong.

This episode highlights the deep historical roots of Hmong musical traditions that originated in China and migrated through Southeast Asia to America after the Secret War. We explore Hmong cultural preservation through music, focusing on the styles of lug txaj and kwv txhiaj, which are performed and cherished at community gatherings like the Hmong New Year and weddings.

Tiffany shares her personal journey with lug txaj, a style she learned in her childhood. She explains its role beyond entertainment—as a vehicle for education and discreet communication within the Hmong community, where direct conversation about sensitive topics is often avoided. Gaosong tells of her initial dreams of pop stardom and how she grew to appreciate the complexity and beauty of kwv txhiaj, influenced by her classical music training and her mother, a master of the genre.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYadebYMyUA&list=PLIOqzinRwOsrXCHwa1drPw5GqyegI87p1&index=8

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We like music. You like music. Let’s break it down. Sound Field is a PBS Digital Studios web series produced by Twin Cities PBS. #SoundFieldPBS