Traditional
Surinamese music
for everyone
Honoring Kenneth Fong Hing's dream: sharing Suriname's rich musical heritage with all. Discover the rhythms, stories, and spirit that connect generations. Join us in keeping this vibrant culture alive and accessible for everyone.
We're here to share the sounds and stories of Suriname's past—making music accessible to everyone, honoring a rich cultural legacy, and inviting you to help keep these traditions vibrant for generations to come.
The Collection
Originally compiled in 1976 by Mavis Noordwijk, Alonki acts as a vital archive for Surinamese folk songs—melodies that carry the history and everyday emotions of the descendants of the enslaved.
For decades, these songs risked being lost to time. As H.F. de Ziel noted, they represent the true "idiom of life"—not distant high art, but the honest expression of a people's culture.
A Tribute to Kenneth
This website is based on the 2024 Fourth Edition, titled "With Music and Love, Kenneth," is a heartfelt tribute to the late Kenneth Fong Hing.
Initiated by his widow, Lucia Yang, this edition is more than just a reprint. It fulfills a long-held dream: to finally record these timeless songs. Mavis Noordwijk herself returned to the studio to lend her voice to this project, bridging the past and present in Kenneth's honor.
The Journey of Alonki
The Digital Archive
This website serves as a permanent, accessible home for the Alonki collection. Built with modern web technologies, it allows preservation beyond physical pages—ensuring these songs can be heard, learned, and shared globally.