The Tradition of Nepalese Music

Nepal is located at the southern foot of the Himalayas, bordering China and Tibet in the north and India in the southeast, south and west. Due to geographical, historical and ethnic factors, two different styles of folk music have been formed: mountain music and plain music. Mountain music is based on pentatonic scale, and more than two beats are used. The tune is relatively stable and is often played within an octave. The influence of Tibetan music is obvious. Music in plain areas is dominated by six or seven tones. There are many complicated beats and decorative sounds. Folk songs are rich, folk songs and dances are common genres, and Indian music has a greater influence. The main Nepalese musical instruments are: Salenjiqin, Shanai, Dolak drum, horn, flute, etc.

The artists who are mainly engaged in folk music activities in Nepal are called Damanyi and Gere. Damanyi usually works as a tailor and is hired to play music for fun during religious festivals and folk festivals. Kiel was originally a court musician in18th century, but he became a wandering artist after19th century. They are good at singing lyric songs, narrative songs and religious songs