Introduction of the Work
"Uwas na Syumuy Pehu" is the culmination of Ko Chiu-Mei (Syumuy Pehu)’s lifelong dedication to music and cultural preservation. Through her songs, she expresses a deep longing for her homeland and family, like wildflowers blooming with love and beauty. Her music carries the memories and emotions of Mekarang (梅嘎蒗), a village in Jianshi Township, Hsinchu County, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia and reverence.

As an Atayal elder, Ko has taken on the rare and significant mission of creating original songs in the Atayal Tseqqli dialect, transforming past traditions and customs into melodies that can be passed down to younger generations. Since 1983, she has composed over a hundred songs, spanning children's songs, association anthems, Buddhist hymns, philosophical pieces, and native-language compositions, making invaluable contributions to the preservation of Atayal culture.

Her passion for music led her to compose her own melodies, inspired by personal experiences and cultural heritage, ensuring that her artistic expressions remain true to her people. Her works have become a foundation for the dance groups and associations she has established, allowing performers to freely sing, dance, and embody the essence of Atayal traditions, shaping a unique artistic identity.

She often tells her students: "If you can sing, you can dance. The essence of dance lies in its rhythm and spirit. Even without sound equipment, we can still sing and dance—this is the resilient and joyful nature of Indigenous people, never yielding to fate." This performance is more than an artistic feast; it is a profound expression of life, memory, and cultural identity.

About the Artist
Ko Chiu-Mei (Syumuy Pehu) is an Atayal elder devoted to Indigenous music and dance creation. As a performer, she founded "Atayal Cultural Dance Troupe" in 2001, focusing on preserving and promoting Atayal culture through traditional dance, musical performances, and cultural exhibitions. By presenting these near-forgotten traditions, she enables people to experience the beauty and significance of Atayal heritage, creating a bridge between past and present.

Despite suffering severe fractures in a car accident in 2018, Ko persevered through rehabilitation, refusing to abandon her passion for music and dance. At 76 years old, she continues to compose and perform, blending Atayal culture with influences from various Indigenous communities, crafting a unique artistic style. Her extensive body of work includes over one hundred songs, integrating Atayal traditions with contemporary influences.

Ko has collaborated with renowned musician Hsieh Ming-Yu, using music to tell the stories of Indigenous life and history. Her compositions help reconnect urban Indigenous youth with their cultural roots, preserving and revitalizing Indigenous heritage through music.

Her musical creations are deeply rooted in Atayal traditions, yet she brings fresh vitality to her work by infusing modern elements into traditional melodies. She meticulously collects and arranges music, composes and records, refining Atayal music into a distinct and contemporary art form. Her songs foster cultural unity, self-reflection, and spiritual healing, serving as a powerful bridge between generations.

Through her pure, resonant voice and innovative compositions, she conveys her deep emotions and artistic vision, allowing audiences to truly experience the essence of Indigenous artistry and her profound love for her homeland and culture.

Featured Songs
1. Atayal Suite
"Hymn of the Mountains" – A powerful declaration of Atayal identity and unity.
"Myugi (Dance)" – Captures the joy of Atayal women who dance to ease their labor.
"Bluku (Bamboo Winnowing Basket)" – Inspired by traditional Atayal melodies, designed for dance performances.
"'Giran (Blessing Ritual)" – A shaman’s ritual song for healing and peace.
2. "Mekarang"
A heartfelt tribute to Ko's mother, reflecting on her unspoken yet profound love and dedication to her family.

3. "Ma’aw/Makaw (Mountain Peppercorn)"
Celebrating the Atayal people's deep connection to nature through a song about their most cherished spice.

4. "Atayal Warrior"
The first-ever Atayal warrior dance, incorporating authentic props to reenact hunting traditions and tribal defense, reclaiming Atayal dignity and history.

5. "Phapah ni Yaya (Mother’s Flower)"
A poetic homage to motherhood, reminding younger generations to cherish and honor their mothers.

6. "Kaka/Phapah (Flowers)"
Exploring the cultural significance of flowers across different Indigenous communities.

Performance Highlights
This concert seamlessly blends Atayal-language songs with contemporary arrangements, incorporating traditional Indigenous music and dance alongside modern elements. The performance, featuring Ko's family members, radiates warmth, energy, and authenticity, offering a profound cultural and artistic experience.

Beyond a mere showcase of music and dance, this event narrates the story of a people, their resilience, and their enduring spirit, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the depth and beauty of Atayal heritage.