Merced leaders proclaimed Oct. 7 as Hmong Flute Masters Appreciation Day during their regular meeting Monday, paying tribute to the artistry and enduring contributions of Hmong flute masters, known as qeej players.
During a ceremony held inside City Council chambers, the rich, resonant sounds of the qeej filled the air as Tony Lor of the group “Nuj Sis Loob” demonstrated the wind instrument’s evocative melodies.
“This flute is more than just music,” said Lor, a dedicated musician and teacher. “It’s a guide, a storyteller, and a connection to our ancestors.”
A legacy passed through generations
The qeej, traditionally crafted from bamboo, is central to Hmong cultural rituals. Its music is believed to communicate with spirits, guiding the deceased and offering comfort to the living.
Beyond funerals, the qeej is played at celebrations, reinforcing its role as a vessel of unity and cultural expression.
With its intricate, haunting notes, the qeej holds deep cultural significance in the Hmong community.
Traditionally played during funeral ceremonies, it is said to guide the deceased’s soul to the afterlife.
As Merced Mayor Matthew Serratto said during the proclamation, “Without these Hmong flute masters, the Hmong community can’t move forward with their funeral services.”
Lor, who has spent over two decades teaching the qeej to his children and students, emphasized the importance of preserving this tradition.
“It’s something we brought over to the U.S., and we continue to practice it,” he said. “My kids and students are keeping this legacy alive.”
For Bar Xiong, Lor’s teacher who has called Merced home for 38 years, the proclamation marked a moment of pride and reflection.
“Today is special for our people,” he said. “The qeej is not just an instrument — it’s a bridge between generations, carrying stories, traditions, and the very essence of who we are.”
The proclamation celebrated the qeej’s role in cultural events, funeral services, and festivals but also the dedication of its masters as educators, mentors, and community leaders.
As the proclamation read, the instrument’s contributions “enrich our cultural landscape and strengthen the bonds of our diverse community.”
Both teachers showed their gratitude for the recognition and hope that it inspires broader appreciation and support for Hmong culture.
“If anyone needs help for performances, schools, or events, we’re here to share our knowledge,” Xiong said. “This is about keeping the spirit of the qeej alive.”