Traditional music show in Hanoi Old Quarter enthralls audiences

The art programme is part of activities underway to mark Vietnam Culture Heritage Day which falls on November 23 annually.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 2

Grammy Award-winning American conductor Jeff Von Der Schmidt (L) and cultural researcher Dam Quang Minh deliver speeches at the opening of the art programme.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 3

A group of local artists perform Ca Tru, a type of Vietnamese ceremonial singing, recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage in October, 2009.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 4

The Center for Culture and Art in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is packed with local residents and tourists.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 5

The most common form of Ca Tru involves three performers, including a female vocalist, a lute player, and a drummer. The female singer provides the vocals, whilst playing her phach, beating the two wooden sticks together on a small bamboo bar, which serves as the percussion.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 6

Ca Tru originates from folk music, meaning that it is a synthesis of art involving a complex blend of poetry and music. Photographed is a special performance put on by a 97-year-old vocalist.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 7

People’s artist Thuy Ngan performs Cheo, one of the traditional theatrical art forms from the country.

traditional music show in hanoi old quarter enthralls audiences picture 8

Artist Ngo Tra My excites audiences while playing Dan Bau, the Vietnamese monochord, which is a traditional one-string musical instrument and an important part of traditional arts.