Highlights include the first independent band award, music and dance exchange, aesthetic market, and tribal collaboration
The Alishan National Scenic Area Headquarters hosted the Alishan Muni Music Festival at Niupuzi Love Prairie from October 26–27. Centered on the music and dance culture of the Tsou people, the festival reinterpreted stories of myths and legends. Featuring some of Taiwan's best indigenous performance art groups, Muni Music Festival has become a renowned platform for indigenous arts in Taiwan.
This year marked the debut of the independent band award. With 15 talented finalists showcasing their creativity during the event, visitors were treated to diverse and captivating performances. A panel of five professional judges selected the winners based on a comprehensive evaluation:
- Loud Star Award was awarded to Tuesday Plan, a group composed of Bunun, Truku, and Atayal members. They performed two songs, The Other Place and Source, earning a prize of NT$50,000.
- Jury Grand Prize was awarded to the Kaniw Band, featuring Amis and Paiwan members. Their live performances of Mahengheng Avenue and Ma'ilol earned them a prize of NT$100,000.
- Muni Grand Prize was awarded to Alexander, a group also comprising of Amis and Paiwan members. With music embodying Taitung's relaxed, slow-paced lifestyle, their performances of Ugly Heart and Going Home Nokayto impressed the audience and won them the grand prize of NT$150,000.
Other event highlights included the Tribal Collaboration Project, in which the Tefuye Wuxuan Band partnered with Utjung Tjakivalid, a talented artist from the Pingtung Vungalid Tribe and a three-time Golden Melody Awards nominee. Together, they collaborated on songwriting and delivered a stunning performance. The festival also featured remarkable performances by outstanding indigenous artists such as Matzka, Kasiwa, Abous, and Utjung Tjakivalid whose soulful voices resonated throughout Alishan and captivated thousands of attendees.
This year, to make the event even more engaging, a special Tsou culture DIY activity was introduced. Instructors from the Pnguu Tribe guided participants in crafting wild boar ornaments, while a traditional hog roast banquet added a culinary highlight to the festival. Visitors enjoyed an unforgettable weekend of music, food, and culture.
