PatWaing, also known as the circle drum, is a traditional musical instrument and ensemble from Myanmar (formerly Burma). The term "pat" means drum, and "waing" refers to the circular shape of the drums and their arrangement in a circle. The Pat Waing typically consists of 18 to 21 drums of increasing sizes and pitches. HsaingWaing is the name of the ensemble (including other percussion and wind instruments) in which Pat Waing is played.
The drums themselves are made of wood and covered with animal skin, usually from cows or water buffaloes. Each drum has a distinct pitch and produces a unique sound when struck with the hands. The drums are arranged counterclockwise from smallest to biggest, with a gap for a back gate. Pat Waing drummers use this gate to enter the drum circle, where they sit in the middle to play. The ensemble is often accompanied by other instruments such as cymbals, gongs, and bamboo flutes.
Pat Waing (the drums) and Hsaing Waing (the ensemble) are an integral part of Myanmar's traditional music. Hsaing Waing is commonly performed in festivals, ceremonies, and theatrical performances. The music created by the ensemble is lively, energetic, and rhythmic, creating an immersive and captivating experience for the listeners. The instrument and its ensemble hold cultural and artistic significance, and are part of the musical heritage and identity of the Myanmar people.
In recent years, Pat Waing has gained international recognition and appreciation, and it has been performed on various stages around the world, contributing to the promotion and preservation of Myanmar's rich musical traditions.
Pat Waing in Orchestra- Academy Myanmar Pyi Kyauk Sein Ensemble
Pat Waing Solo- Myanmar Pyi Kyauk Sein
HsaingWaing is a traditional music ensemble that holds great cultural significance in Myanmar. It encompasses a wide range of musical instruments including PatWaing, MuangHsaing (set of tuned gongs or bells), Hne (double-reed instrument similar to a oboe), ChaukLonBat (a pair of large drums played with sticks), Byaung (a pair of small cymbals), Wa (gong), WalletKok (set of small wooden clappers), Yakin (bamboo xylophone), Si (traditional flute), and Mong (traditional drum).
The origins of Hsaing Waing can be traced back to 1544, during the reign of King Tabinshwehti of the Taungoo dynasty, where it appeared in religious ceremonies and rituals. During colonization, the popularity of Hsaing Waing declined, but new innovations, such as modern recording mediums and broadcasts, expanded its reach to a wider audience and brought innovation to its performances. People began including Hsaing Wang in new settings. This era also saw the incorporation of Western musical instruments like the piano, violin, and mandolin, creating a fusion of traditional and Western musical elements.
In contemporary Myanmar society, Hsaing Waing performances have been adapted to include a wide range of rituals, including Buddhism ordainment ceremonies, ear piercing rituals, spiritual possessions, graduation events, and welcoming celebrations. These performances aim to provide entertainment that is both delightful and emotionally impactful, tailored to the specific atmosphere and purpose of each event.
Image Courtesy of Myanmar Net Media
Image Courtesy of Air Asia
HsaingWaing ensembles are commonly featured in traditional Burmese dance-dramas called ZatPwe and YokeThay. These performances are elaborate theatrical productions that combine music, dance, and storytelling. The Hsaing Waing ensemble, with the Pat Waing at its core, accompanies the dancers, enhancing the dramatic and emotional aspects of the narrative.
Additionally, Hsaing Waing ensembles are also present during religious festivals, ceremonies, and other cultural events in Myanmar. The rhythmic and captivating sounds of the ensemble add a festive and celebratory atmosphere to these occasions.
What’s in a Name: Burma or Myanmar?- United States Institute of Peace
Burma, Myanmar, and why the different names matter- AP News
Myanmar’s Troubled History: Coups, Military Rule, and Ethnic Conflict- Council on Foreign Affairs
Burma Genocide- U.S. Department of State
Although most of the world calls Myanmar by its government-approved English name, Myanmar, the United States is one of a few countries who continue to call it by its old name, Burma. Why does Myanmar/Burma have two different names? And why does the United States use its old one?
The first question is relatively easy to answer: Myanmar has two different names in English because it has two names in Burmese, the national language. “Myanmar” is essentially a more formal version of the word “Burma.” To Burmese speakers, there is no “old” or “new” version of the name; they use both terms interchangeably. Traditionally, English-speaking countries have used the term Burma, especially in spoken language, but Myanmar also appeared in writing.
The word “Burma” has an ethnic component- it refers to Burmese, who are the largest ethnic group in the country. Some groups have cited this as a reason to switch fully to Myanmar, out of respect for the 100+ other ethnic groups throughout the nation.
It wasn’t until a military coup in 1989 that Burma formally requested an English name shift to Myanmar, and since then, the name has become a tool for political debate. Some governments, like the US, maintain “Burma” as a show of defiance against the military junta, and many administrations continue to waffle back and forth depending on the current diplomatic situation.
To read more about the Burma/Myanmar name change, the military rule and its human rights abuses, and the pro-democracy movement, check out the links at the top of the resource.
