Pairang Pavavaljung, the preserver of the important traditional performing art of the Paiwan nose flute, passed away on March 11 at the age of 89. Culture Minister Shih Che expressed his condolences upon hearing the news and stated that Pairang Pavavaljung has been devoted to preserving, promoting and passing on the skills of making and performing the Paiwan nose flute. Minister Shih has instructed the Bureau of Cultural Heritage to fully assist Pairang Pavavaljung's family with the funeral arrangement and will propose awarding a posthumous presidential citation in recognition of his commitment.
Paiwan artist Pairang Pavavaljung (also known by his Chinese name Hsu Kun-chung) was born in the Davalan tribe, Sandimen Township in 1935. In addition to his experience in playing nose flutes, Pairang Pavavaljung is also a skilled craftsperson in making them. This earned Pairang Pavavaljung the nickname "pulima" among his people, which translates to "the many-handed" in the Paiwan language, meaning one with remarkable craftsmanship and the ability to tell stories with their hands. His music, which was used as a soundtrack in the movie "Connection by Fate (超級公民)," won the Best Music at the Asia Pacific Film Festival (亞太影展).
According to the Ministry of Culture, the nose flute is one of the most representative instruments in Paiwan culture. It reflects the aristocracy, lifestyle, musical characteristics, and artistic craftsmanship of Paiwan society. Pairang Pavavaljung was recognized as the Preserver of the Important Traditional Performing Art in 2010 and was certified as the "National Living Treasure" by the Council for Cultural Affairs (CCA), the predecessor of the MOC.
The MOC added that Pairang Pavavaljung has dedicated his life to passing on the performing art of the Paiwan nose flute. For decades, he taught elementary students as well as indigenous communities the techniques of making and playing the instrument. Since 2012, he has been participating in the apprentice program for the Paiwan nose flute, passing down the precious intangible cultural heritage for future generations.