With a talent for singing, after graduating from high school, Ma Thi Mai, a Tay ethnic girl from Tuyen Quang , decided to pursue a career in the arts and studied at the Viet Bac College of Culture and Arts.

Ma Thi Mai (on the right) at a cultural performance.

Three years of study honed Mai's singing voice, making it clearer and more expressive. Her love for singing, combined with her love for the military uniform, motivated her to continue her studies at the Military University of Culture and Arts, determined to become a soldier and perform for officers and soldiers throughout the country.

Having worked for nearly nine years at the Military Arts Troupe of Military Region 3, Ma Thi Mai participated in many major art programs and achieved high results in professional art festivals. The works that Mai and her fellow actors and artists in the troupe participated in staging and performing have contributed to preserving and honoring the cultural and historical values ​​of the Red River Delta region, the traditions of the Army, and spreading the noble image of Uncle Ho's soldiers.

The Military Arts Troupe of Military Region 3 undertakes many long-term assignments, traveling to border regions and remote islands to serve the musical needs of officers, soldiers, and the people. Recognizing this as a duty, Mai is always ready for these trips. Truong Sa (Spratly Islands) holds a special place in the hearts of every Vietnamese person, and Mai has been fortunate enough to visit it twice. The first time was when she first joined the Military Arts Troupe of Military Region 3, and the second time was after she had started a family and had a young child. Mai shared: "In April 2024, I went to Truong Sa for the second time. Anxiety and longing for my child were always present, but along with that came excitement, anticipation, and a sense of nostalgia as I boarded the ship to meet the soldiers guarding the sea."

Her biggest regret during the voyage was not being able to set foot on the DK1 platform due to unfavorable weather conditions. All activities with the platform were conducted via radio, including cultural performances. The entire delegation, including Mai, couldn't hold back their tears out of sympathy for the soldiers and admiration for the naval personnel who steadfastly guarded the sea day and night.

For as many years as she has been dedicated to her profession, Senior Lieutenant Ma Thi Mai has been involved in emotionally charged work trips. She shared that she is fortunate to have a life partner who, although not in the same profession, is always understanding, supportive, and willing to take care of their young children so that Mai can focus on her duties. Perhaps that is also the important motivation that helps Senior Lieutenant Ma Thi Mai wholeheartedly dedicate herself to music, determined to use music to connect hearts that beat as one, united in their love for the homeland.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/van-hoc-nghe-thuat/cho-tieng-hat-bay-xa-1021886