(VOVWORLD) - Nam Can Tho University has organized the program “Echoes of Heritage” to honor the nation’s cultural values. Showcasing a series of music and dance performances, the program offered an artistic journey that brought to life, both nationally and internationally recognized intangible cultural heritage, from the North, Central, and South of Vietnam.
 Nam Can Tho University students perform “Xam Thap An”, honoring ten forms of gratitude. (Photo: Hong Phuong/VOV correspondent in the Mekong Delta) |
The program began with the performance “Xam Thap An”, a traditional Xam, the music of blind street performers in Northern Vietnam, honoring ten forms of gratitude, from parental love and respect for teachers and friends, as well as devotion to the homeland. Though the student performers were not professionals, their sincere and passionate delivery infused new energy into the age-old melodies, helping to bring this intangible cultural heritage closer to the audience.
The program also highlighted other forms of intangible cultural heritage, such as Quan họ folk singing from Bac Ninh; Hau dong, a theatrical ritual form, central to the worship of the Mother Goddesses; Nha Nhac (Hue royal court music); Gong culture of the Central Highlands; and Don Ca Tai Tu (amateur singing), a type of folk music unique to the Southern region of Vietnam.
 A performance of cup dancing, an art form originating from the former imperial city of Hue (Photo: Hong Phuong/VOV correspondent in the Mekong Delta) |
“I took part in a Hau Dong ritual, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. I spent about two months rehearsing with my classmates. During that time, I also did a lot of research on Hau dong, a ritual of spirit mediumship by watching documentaries and videos on social media. I have a deep passion for this traditional art form, so I tried my best to deliver a polished performance,” said student Le Minh Nhat, who participated in the program.
“I believe that in this digital era, it’s even more important for us to preserve historical values, and especially in academic settings so that these traditions can reach and inspire young people and wider audiences,” he added.
Different music art forms from across Vietnam were creatively integrated into an art program by the students that harmoniously blended tradition with contemporary spirit. It shows that folk music does not just echo the past, but is constantly being reborn, in fresh, innovative, and modern forms.
 The program “Echoes of Heritage” (Photo: Hong Phuong/ VOV correspondent in the Mekong Delta) |
Nguyen Quoc Khang, the program’s General Director, said 100 students participated.
“The idea came to me when I realized that many young people, including students, are caught up in modern life and have limited knowledge of Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage. This program was created as a bridge to connect and promote these cultural values among students and the younger generation. I hope that more similar events will be held in other universities, so we can exchange and celebrate even more cultural traditions together,” Khang said.
Tran Viet Tuan, Deputy Secretary of Can Tho City’s Youth Union, said the program reflects the dynamism and creativity of students. “I hope that more such activities will be held in the future to spread love for the homeland and encourage young people to explore and appreciate Vietnamese history and culture.”