Khen has been playing an important role in the cultural and spiritual life of the Mong people in the locality.

It is often played at Mong festivals and New Year celebrations by young Mong men who dance at the same time to show off their strength, sensibility and skills. They learn to play the musical instrument when they are small. Boys often carry a Khen to local terraced fields or market fairs.

At festivals, the melodies of Khen resound over mountains and forests, expressing wishes of the Mong people. Mong men who play the Khen and dance exceptionally well are admired by villagers. At funeral ceremonies, the panpine, on behalf of the living, talks to the soul of the dead. Meanwhile, at wedding parties, it conveys parents’ wishes to their children.

Over the recent years, local authorities have paid special attention to preserving this art form, aiming to promote the cultural identity of the Mong people.

Many Khen performance activities have been organised within local festivals and tourism promotion events.  

The recognition has contributed to affirming the cultural value of traditional art in the daily life of the Mong community in Yen Bai province./.