Taiwanese Paiwan musician Sauljaljui recently performed a solo concert near National Taiwan Normal University. Over 70 fans and media members attended the intimate show. Notably, it took place just days before the prestigious Golden Melody Awards. During the concert, she sat in front of a moon projection while playing her moon zither. Her voice and instruments created a unique music of sorrow and hope that echoed through the room. As a result, her emotional performance stirred the audience deeply.
This year, Sauljaljui received four nominations at the Golden Melody Awards. Impressively, she took home Best Arranger and Best Indigenous Album for VAIVAIK. Although the album took four years to complete, it marked a turning point in her career. Furthermore, it was her first time serving as both artist and producer. She collaborated with Indigenous talents like Putad Pihay and Alena Murang. In addition, she blended the Paiwan language with global influences. According to her, VAIVAIK is a reflection of diverse cultural dialogue and music of sorrow and hope.
Her home village strongly supported her ambitions. For instance, a local designer volunteered to create her red carpet dress. The design drew inspiration from the 100-pacer snake, a sacred Paiwan symbol of nobility and power. Sauljaljui often performs alone, playing the two-string moon zither or yueqin. Although it’s not an Indigenous instrument, she proudly takes it abroad to connect with others. After winning her award, she also honored her late father by wearing his stationmaster’s hat.
Moreover, cultural exchange has always shaped her sound. During a trip to Mauritius, she spent time with Creole-speaking musicians. That experience led her to create the track Dipin Kari Tang, which mixes unfamiliar rhythms with her signature music of sorrow and hope. Later, during a working holiday in Australia, she saw many Indigenous people begging for food and help. Sadly, no one came to their aid. Deeply moved, she cried and later wrote the Mandarin song A Lonely Glass of Wine. Therefore, she encouraged others to seek comfort in music of sorrow and hope during dark times.
After her 90-minute set, Sauljaljui stayed to greet fans. She led a joyful sing-along and tapped rhythms with a shaker. Despite the weight of expectations, she smiled and said, “I am just a folk musician. I play music because it calls to me.” In conclusion, Sauljaljui’s music of sorrow and hope not only brings her success but also bridges cultures and inspires hearts worldwid
