Vietnam’s Ca Dong People Revive 300M Waterfall-Powered Bamboo Instrument

In Quảng Ngãi Province, Vietnam, two Ca Dong artisans, Đinh Văn Trí and Đinh Văn Khoen, rebuilt a traditional water-powered bamboo instrument at the Ruong stream near the Thac Lua waterfall. The nearly nine-meter instrument uses water diverted from the 300-meter-high Thac Lua waterfall to move a series of nearly 40 bamboo pipes. As water fills and empties a tilting trough, it pulls on strings connected to the pipes, causing them to strike each other and create melodic sounds.

The “akhung đheak” instrument, once common among the Ca Dong people, has nearly disappeared. Traditionally placed near streams or fields, it provided entertainment, protected crops from animals, and held spiritual significance, believed to please forest, mountain, and water spirits. The revival faces challenges because few people still possess the crafting skills.

Local authorities hope the instrument will become a cultural attraction at the Ra Hach lake - Ruong stream tourist area and contribute to preserving the Ca Dong people’s heritage.