Ethnic women play the Tinh gourd lute while singing Then. (Photo: anninhthudo.vn)

The Tinh, a stringed gourd lute, is a unique instrument of the Tay, Nung, and Thai minority people in the northern mountainous region.

The 2-day event, in its 6^th season so far, will draw artists from 16 localities across Vietnam. It will include a photo exhibit of Then singing and Tinh instrument playing, and a demonstration of the weaving craft of the Tay, Nung, and Thai ethnic groups, as well as an international marathon and tourism activities.

Then means “God” and Then singing is believed to be handed down from God. The singing is often performed during important occasions and ceremonies to pray for peace and good crops and summon the spirits of deceased family members.