Zomi Music

Explore the rich musical heritage of the Zomi people

Zomi Traditional Musical Performance

Our Musical Heritage

Music is at the heart of Zomi cultural identity, serving as both a form of artistic expression and a means of preserving our history, values, and traditions. For generations, Zomi music has been passed down orally, with songs that tell stories of our homeland, celebrate important life events, and express deep spiritual connections.

Zomi musical heritage encompasses a diverse range of styles, from traditional folk songs accompanied by indigenous instruments to contemporary compositions that blend traditional elements with modern musical influences. As Zomi people have spread across the globe, our music has evolved while maintaining its core cultural essence.

At ZOMUS USA, we are committed to preserving traditional Zomi musical forms while also supporting the development of contemporary Zomi music that speaks to new generations. Through documentation, education, and performance opportunities, we ensure that the rich tapestry of Zomi music continues to thrive in the United States and beyond.

Explore Zomi Music

Discover the diverse styles and expressions of Zomi musical traditions

All
Traditional
Contemporary
Gospel
Folk
Traditional Zomi Folk Music

Laam Tuunsa

Traditional Folk Song

A traditional harvest song celebrating the bountiful crops and community gathering during harvest season.

Traditional Folk
Contemporary Zomi Music

Hong Sawmna

Cin Khan Thang

A contemporary composition that blends traditional Zomi melodies with modern musical arrangements.

Contemporary Fusion
Zomi Gospel Music

Pasian Phatna La

Zomi Gospel Choir

A powerful gospel hymn performed in the Zomi language, expressing deep faith and spiritual devotion.

Gospel Choral
Traditional Zomi Instrumental Music

Khuangkaih

Traditional Instrumental

An instrumental piece featuring the khuang (drum) and other traditional Zomi instruments, typically played during celebrations.

Traditional Instrumental
Contemporary Zomi Folk Music

Ka Gam Ngaihna

Niang Za Mung

A contemporary folk song expressing longing for the homeland, blending traditional lyrics with modern musical elements.

Contemporary Folk
Modern Zomi Gospel Music

Hehpihna Thupha

Suan Kam

A modern gospel song that incorporates contemporary musical styles while maintaining Zomi lyrical traditions.

Gospel Contemporary

Traditional Instruments

Discover the unique instruments that form the foundation of Zomi music

Khuang

The khuang is a traditional drum made from hollowed wood and animal hide. It is the central percussion instrument in Zomi music, used to establish rhythm in both ceremonial and celebratory contexts.

Darkhuang

A set of small bronze gongs arranged in sequence by pitch, the darkhuang produces melodic tones and is often used in ensemble performances alongside the khuang and other instruments.

Phenglawng

A bamboo flute with finger holes that produces haunting melodies. The phenglawng comes in various sizes that produce different tonal ranges and is used in both solo and ensemble performances.

Ting Ting Tang

A string instrument similar to a guitar but with fewer strings. The ting ting tang is played with fingers or a pick and often accompanies singing in traditional folk music.

Sialki

Made from buffalo horns, the sialki is a wind instrument with a distinct sound that carries over long distances. Historically used for communication, it now features in ceremonial performances and cultural events.

Gosem

A reed instrument made from a special type of bamboo, the gosem produces a vibrant, reedy sound. It requires significant skill to play and is often featured in traditional folk compositions.

Featured Zomi Artists

Celebrating talented musicians who are preserving and innovating Zomi musical traditions

Thang Lian Pau - Zomi Artist

Thang Lian Pau

Traditional Vocalist

A master of traditional Zomi folk songs who has dedicated his life to preserving the oral traditions of Zomi music.

Esther Nungi - Zomi Artist

Esther Nungi

Contemporary Singer

An innovative artist who blends traditional Zomi melodies with contemporary pop and R&B influences.

Gin Sian Lian - Zomi Artist

Gin Sian Lian

Instrumentalist

A virtuoso on multiple traditional Zomi instruments, including the khuang, phenglawng, and darkhuang.

Niang Mung - Zomi Artist

Niang Mung

Gospel Artist

A beloved gospel singer whose spiritual compositions have become staples in Zomi churches across the USA.

Zomi Lengthe Competition 2025

The premier Zomi song competition in the United States, showcasing the best musical talent from our community. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Zomi music and culture.

120
Days
14
Hours
36
Minutes
52
Seconds
Learn More Register Now

Zomi Music Archive Project

Preserving our musical heritage for future generations

Digitizing Zomi Musical Heritage

ZOMUS USA is proud to announce our ongoing Zomi Music Archive Project, an ambitious initiative to document, digitize, and preserve traditional Zomi music for future generations.

This comprehensive digital archive will include:

  • High-quality recordings of traditional songs and instrumental pieces
  • Video documentation of performances and musical techniques
  • Oral histories from elder musicians and cultural knowledge keepers
  • Documentation of traditional instruments and their construction
  • Transcriptions of lyrics and musical notation

By preserving these cultural treasures in digital format, we ensure that Zomi musical traditions remain accessible to community members around the world and for generations to come.

Support This Project
Zomi Music Archive Project