Rin Kakvey

Khmer Traditional Musician
and Educator

I am Rin Kakvey, and for over twelve years, I have dedicated my life to preserving and teaching the art of Khmer traditional music and dance.

My love for Khmer music began when I was just 13 years old, studying under Teacher Yut Yim at the Khousathey Organization. Later, I deepened my skills with Teacher Uy Ki in Siem Reap Province for over three years. My passion led me to establish the SAMUT School of Music and Dance in Banteay Meanchey Province. Since then, I have run this school to provide free lessons in classical dance, classical music, and classical singing to our community. The school has 85 students and four dedicated volunteer teachers, operating seven days a week. At SAMUT, we all work as volunteers to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to learn and appreciate our rich cultural heritage.

I can play and teach many traditional Khmer instruments such as Roneat Ek, Roneat Dek, Kong Vong Thom, Kong Vong Toch, Skor Sampho, Skor Thom, Srolai Thom, Srolai Thochhing, and Flute. After our students become proficient, they have various opportunities: they can perform to earn money, become art teachers at private schools or organizations, or take entrance exams to continue their studies at the College of Arts in Phnom Penh.

In the future, I aspire to be recognized as a leader and expert in the field of Cambodian art. My dream is to develop a high-quality school that sets clear standards in teaching Cambodian art, ensuring our cultural heritage is preserved and respected. I also aim to research and document endangered art forms.

Most importantly, I hope that Cambodian people, especially the youth, will master the art of our ancestors. I am committed to reversing the decline of our cultural heritage and saving lost art by inspiring Cambodians to reconnect with their artistic roots.

Rin Kakvey

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