The Music

The Burmese classical/theatrical orchestra is called the s'ain 'ensemble'. Its instruments can be divided into two kinds depending upon whether they have fixed or variable notes. This Burmese theatre orchestra is part of the reserve collection at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter. Select an instrument to find out more about it: some you can even record yourself playing!

• Find out more about Burmese Music
• Listen to a Burmese Orchestra (pop-up window)

The Fixed Notes

These include the ci: wain (gong circle); Maun: s'ain (gong chime): and patala (xylophone).

The Variable Notes

These instruments are the hne (oboe); saun:gau? (harp); pa? wain (drum circle) and the various string instruments.