In Pictures & Music: Fabulous and generous Khmer Magic Music Bus

The Khmer Magic Music Bus is now an integral part of the country's cultural and musical landscape, and it's now commonplace to see them at festivals across the country.

Khmer Magic Music Bus

The band recently performed at the Canopy Fest X CULT festival in Treellion Park - Koh Pich and, as always, received a very enthusiastic response from the audience. The Khmer Magic Music Bus (KMMB) began as a musical initiative to revive and promote Cambodia's rich musical heritage. The aim is to bring traditional Cambodian music to rural villages, improving access to the performing arts in areas of Cambodia that lack cultural resources.

This initiative is part of Cambodian Living Arts' efforts to preserve and revitalise local traditions. The group plays a mixture of traditional and contemporary musical styles, often incorporating rock and roll influences. They engage with local communities through performances, workshops and educational programmes, fostering a greater appreciation of Cambodian culture.

The KMMB collaborates with a range of local artists and musicians, creating a dynamic ensemble that showcases Cambodia's rich musical traditions while engaging communities through performances and educational workshops.

In 2025, KMMB celebrates its 12th anniversary, marking more than a decade of truly impactful cultural work across Cambodia. The KMMB works with a variety of artists and organisations, enhancing its musical repertoire and outreach efforts. Their performances often include original compositions that reflect both traditional themes and modern influences.

Thorn Seyma is the Community Engagement and Awareness Coordinator for KMMB and has played a key role in its development

Seyma is also a talented singer, known for her interpretations that blend traditional Khmer music with contemporary influences.

Master Mon Hai: A master musician who plays the khene (a traditional bamboo mouth organ), Mon Hai has played a key role in establishing links with other musicians and sharing his knowledge through the KMMB

His performances captivate audiences in rural areas, where many Cambodians young and old have never seen a live traditional music performance.

Arn Chorn Pond: Co-founder of KMMB, Arn is a renowned musician and human rights campaigner

Arn Chorn Pond has dedicated his life to restoring Cambodia's musical heritage, particularly after the devastating effects of the Khmer Rouge regime on the country's artists.

Dika Seyma: Thorn Seyma's brother, Dika works alongside him to organise and promote KMMB events throughout Cambodia.

The KMMB collaborates with a variety of local artists and musicians, creating a dynamic ensemble that showcases the country's rich musical traditions while engaging communities through performances and educational workshops.

The Khmer Magic Music Bus therefore plays an essential role in Cambodia's cultural landscape, connecting communities through music while preserving the country's musical heritage.

The Khmer Magic Music Bus in Treellion Park (archive 2023)

More photographs here