Creating a Circle of Unity: Sauljaljui Breaks Language Barriers with Indigenous Melodies

Wind Music
Aug 16, 2024
4 min read

From Paiwan to the World, from Taiwan to Europe!

Dear Music Lover,

How have you been? It’s been a while since our last article. In mid-July this summer, Taiwanese indigenous vocalist Sauljaljui led three major music festivals in Europe to celebrate Paiwan cultural heritage. Tens of thousands of participants joined in, dancing and singing ancient melodies together. Sauljaljui wrapped up her debut European tour with great success.

Her tour included performances at three major festivals across four countries: Colours of Ostrava in Czechia, WOMAD Festival in the United Kingdom, Sfinks Mixed in Belgium, and an engaging musical workshop in Germany. Over the course of two weeks, these four stops marked a significant milestone in Sauljaljui’s career, introducing her unique music and culture to several tens of thousands of people across Europe.

As a member of the Paiwan indigenous group from Taiwan's southernmost region, Sauljaljui plays an important role in the indigenous music community in Taiwan. Her group is deeply connected to Austronesian heritage, encompassing traditional lifestyles, ocean cultures, and language structures. Representing one of the indigenous groups in Taiwan, she embodies the essence of cultural transmission.

With a career spanning over a decade, Sauljaljui has garnered acclaim for her soulful voice and deep connection to her cultural roots, establishing herself as a leading figure in Taiwanese indigenous music. Accompanied by the traditional Yueqin (Moon Lute), her unique ability to blend ancient melodies with contemporary world music elements has not only created a distinctive sound but also earned her international recognition, including performances at the 2023 ACC World Music Festival in South Korea and 2024 Tallinn Music Week in Estonia.

Among more than twenty stages showcasing a wide range of music genres at Colours of Ostrava, Sauljaljui stood out brilliantly at both the Cacao Stage and the Orlen Drive Stage. Her performances captivated not only those who loved dancing to melodic rhythms but also those who appreciated the raw energy of live outdoor music.

During her performance of the ancient Paiwan song 'Unanasi' (which means ‘Gathering’ in Paiwan language), which invites people to gather and dance, Sauljaljui engaged the entire audience in a traditional “Circle Dance” from her tribe. Her ability to connect through dance, transcending language and cultural barriers, allowed everyone—from children to elders—to join hands and spin around her, creating a powerful cross-cultural experience that left a lasting impression at the Berlin musical workshop.

“It’s been my dream to be at WOMAD,” said Sauljaljui. As the first Taiwanese artist to perform as an indigenous role at WOMAD UK, she not only delighted the audience with captivating melodies but also introduced them to the Paiwan traditional “Nose-flute,” which consists of two bamboo flutes. The mournful tones of this instrument evoke the low hiss of the hundred-step snake, a symbol of ancestral spirits in Paiwan culture. A Romanian audience member expressed her excitement, saying, “After hearing her music, I must visit Taiwan!” and expressed a desire to understand the lyrics’ meaning.

At the final stop of the tour, Sauljaljui made her debut as the first Taiwanese artist at the renowned Sfinks Mixed festival in Belgium. Performing at the spacious "Club Stage" tent, she enjoyed great coverage from the sun and fostered a warm connection with the audience. “The blessings, chants, choruses, dances, and children's solos—surrounded by the circus tent—were truly unforgettable!” she reflected after the enthusiastic reception from the Belgian crowd.

The tour concluded with the song “Sing for Each Other,” which united the audience in a powerful chorus. “Even when life is tough, I’m your friend. I’ll hold your hand and look into your eyes. We sing one song, from sunrise to sunset,” Sauljaljui’s heartfelt message resonated deeply, marking a memorable end to the tour. Her natural charm and engaging performances not only set a new milestone for the Taiwanese indigenous community but also highlighted the significance of global cultural heritage, bridging cultural gaps and bringing music closer to new audiences.

“In Taiwan, the indigenous people are only 2.4 per cent of the population, but musically their profile feels far higher. Seeing Sauljaljui perform, you understand why.”

— Simon Broughton, an important independent journalist in the UK

Through her natural storytelling and musical sharing, Sauljaljui introduced global audiences to the richness of Taiwanese indigenous music, fostering a sense of unity and connection. “On an international stage, 'self' is both important and less so. While knowing who I am is crucial, conveying my message is more significant. When I’m confident and relaxed, the audience feels that and connects with me. I hope to bring this experience back home,” she shared.

Guided by the philosophy of ‘Finding A Way Home Through Music,’ Sauljaljui continues to spread her cultural spirit worldwide and is preparing a new album for release by the end of the year. This summer has been a meaningful chapter, leaving a lasting impression on audiences around the globe, as evidenced by the crowd shouting the Paiwan indigenous name 'Sauljaljui!'