Hmong Studies Journal (Dec 1997)
The Hmong Qeej: Speaking to the Spirit World
Abstract
This investigation focuses on the unique communicative ability of the Hmong qeej, a free-reed multiple pipe musical instrument. Other forms of the qeej are used by various Southeast Asian cultures, but only the Hmong appear to use it to communicate in words with the spirit world. This study is based on oral interviews with Hmong qeej players, focusing on one master qeej player. Discussion reviews the origin legend of the qeej, legendary powers of the instrument, the mystery of the qeej language, training of a qeej player, qualifications of a master qeej player, genre of qeej songs, the role of the qeej in the funeral ceremony, and the qeej as the consumate Hmong cultural identifier.
