Discover the Soul of Cambodia: The Angkuoch (Jew’s Harp)
Experience a timeless traditional instrument that embodies Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Dive into the melodies that have echoed through generations.
Meet the Masters
Preserving the soul of Cambodia through sound, these master musicians have dedicated their lives to crafting and playing the Angkuoch—a traditional instrument passed down through generations. With skill, passion, and deep cultural pride, they ensure this ancient art lives on.
Master Bin Song
Master Bin Song was born on December 5, 1937, and currently resides in Preah Kor Thmey village, Svay Chek Commune, Angkor Thom District, Siem Reap, Cambodia. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for traditional Cambodian music, particularly the Angkuoch, a revered musical instrument.
At the age of 11, Master Bin Song began learning to play the Angkuoch, guided by a local mentor from a nearby mountain village. Demonstrating remarkable talent and quick learning, he quickly mastered both the craft and the art of playing the instrument. His journey was temporarily interrupted at age 21 when he became a monk, leading him to pause his musical pursuits for two years.
After his monastic life, he returned to crafting and playing the Angkuoch, continuing his dedication to this cultural tradition. Personal commitments, including marriage, caused him to pause his craft once again. However, his passion for the Angkuoch endured; in late 2019 and early 2020, he rekindled his efforts to make and play the instrument, viewing it as a vital part of his cultural legacy.
Throughout his life, Master Bin Song has been a steadfast guardian of Cambodia’s musical heritage. He generously shares his knowledge and skills with those eager to learn, ensuring that the tradition of the Angkuoch is preserved for future generations. His lifelong dedication exemplifies his commitment to cultural preservation and the transmission of Cambodia’s rich musical traditions.
Master Keo Malis
Master Keo Malis, born in 1950, is a respected Cambodian artist known for his lifelong dedication to traditional dance and music. He began his career in 1967 as a dancer and instructor at the Royal University of Fine Arts, serving until his retirement in 2013. While his primary expertise lies in Cambodian folk dance, he is also skilled in traditional wind instruments, including the Kloy, Pei-Pok, and Angkuoch.
At age 13, Master Malis began self-teaching the Kloy and Angkuoch Russey. Though he struggled with the Angkuoch at first, he continued playing it casually during ceremonies. In 1968, he received formal Kloy training from Master Yim Saing, significantly improving his technique.
In 1995, he began learning the Angkuoch Daek after purchasing one from a Cham vendor for 1,700 riels—a high price at the time. He practiced using recordings from Pursat, shared by Master Yun Khean, but paused after a year due to discomfort and slow progress.
In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Master Malis reignited his interest in the Angkuoch. He resumed practice, drawing inspiration from recordings and YouTube videos featuring players from Surin, Siem Reap, and Tbong Khmum. His renewed dedication allowed him to reconnect deeply with the instrument.
In 2024, he was invited by Cultural Experiences Cambodia (CEC) to lead an introductory and Angkuoch-making workshop in Siem Reap. That same year, he performed at the World Mouth Harp Music Festival in Taiwan. Despite past challenges, Master Malis remains committed to promoting traditional Cambodian wind instruments and preserving this vital part of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Support and Preservation
Masters like Keo Malis and Master Bin Song dedicate their lives to preserving Cambodia’s rich cultural and musical heritage. Your support enables these artisans and performers to continue their craft, pass down traditional skills, and keep these invaluable traditions alive for future generations. By recognizing and supporting artists like them, you help ensure that Cambodia’s vibrant cultural legacy endures and thrives.
What is Angkuoch?
Angkuoch, also known in English as the mouth harp, Jew’s harp, or jaw harp, holds a unique place in Cambodia’s musical heritage. Depending on the region, it is known by various Khmer names such as Angkuoch (អង្កួច), Kangkuoch (កង្កួច), or Ankuoch (អន្កួច). This instrument is classified as a wind musical instrument, traditionally played for entertainment rather than for ceremonial or ritual purposes.
Historically, the Angkuoch has been part of Cambodia’s cultural landscape for generations. Its origins remain uncertain, with some artists suggesting influences from ethnic minorities such as the Kuoy or Kraol groups. According to local wisdom, the bamboo variety known as Angkuoch Russey (bamboo mouth harp) may have been inspired by communities on Borneo Island, while the Angkuoch Daek (metal mouth harp) is believed to have Mongolian origins. Additionally, the Angkuoch Ksae, a variant developed by Cambodians, was crafted by modifying bamboo pipes of wrist-sized dimensions similar to the traditional bamboo bells called Trodaok Russey (ត្រដោកឫស្សី). Its sound is produced by striking a string with a small mallet and then placing the instrument against the mouth to generate musical tones.
Angkuoch Russey (bamboo mouth harp)
Angkuoch Daek (metal mouth harp)
Angkuoch Ksae (string mouth harp)
Cambodia features three main types of Angkuoch:
Regrettably, the Angkuoch Ksae has nearly vanished, while the Russey and Daek varieties are increasingly endangered without proper preservation efforts. Traditionally, the Angkuoch is played solo or in groups of solo performers, primarily for enjoyment and entertainment rather than for ritualistic or religious functions. Historically, it served as a means of communication among boys and girls, and was also used to accompany village dances, fostering community spirit through music and play.
Despite its cultural significance, the Angkuoch faces the threat of extinction. It remains a symbol of Cambodia’s rich, albeit fragile, musical heritage, deserving of renewed interest and preservation to ensure that this charming traditional instrument continues to resonate in the cultural consciousness of future generations.
A Cultural Treasure at the Heart of Cambodia
As part of Cambodia’s diverse cultural expressions, the Angkuoch reflects the country’s musical heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. It’s more than just an instrument—it’s a symbol of identity, tradition, and community bonding.
Our Commitment to Cultural Preservation
OUR MISSION
To support, strengthen, and facilitate connections between Cambodia’s cultural expressions—both within the country and internationally—ensuring these precious traditions thrive for future generations.
OUR VISION
At Cultural Experiences Cambodia (CEC), our vision is that Cambodia’s traditional arts like the Angkuoch are at the heart of Cambodian life and represent the country to the world.
Craftsmanship and Music
Discover the intricate craftsmanship behind the Angkuoch and the skill required to play it. Through workshops, performances, and community engagement, we aim to preserve and promote this unique instrument.
Join Us in Celebrating Cambodia's Music Heritage
Whether you're a musician, cultural enthusiast, or traveler, you can be part of our mission to keep Cambodia’s traditions alive.
Attend a workshop
Discover traditional instruments and learn from master musicians.
Experience live performances
Enjoy authentic Cambodian dance brought to life on stage.
Help sustain cultural heritage by supporting local artists and initiatives.