FOR the past six years, Sawir Sutan Mudo, maestro saluang (flute) player from West Sumatra, has been spending more of his time accompanying his wife selling women’s clothes and accessories at the market, Pasar Bawah, Bukittinggi.

While in the decade of 1970-1980, his name was famous even beyond the Minang region. A recording company worked with him and in 1972 his first cassette and record were produced. From then until 1980, he produced about