Central region musician loves Southern folk songs and melodies

Few people know that musician Pham Hong Bien, author of a series of famous songs with a strong Southern character such as 'Love for the monsoon season', 'Love for the cross-river cat', 'Ma loves my child forever', 'Cuu Long love'... is a young man born and raised in the Central region.

What inspired and nurtured your love for Southern music when you were a son of Da Nang?

I was born and raised in an artistic family in Da Nang . My father - Pham Hong Thai is an excellent artist, a Bai Choi musician. Ever since I was a child, I have been exposed to Central Vietnamese folk music, especially the Bai Choi melodies and the concave keyboard that my father often played. I followed my father to participate in many art programs and mass performances, so I learned a lot from him. My father was also the first person to teach me the first guitar fingers and songs, and instilled in me a passion for music that I still have today.

When I went to the South to study, I was attracted by the folk songs, melodies and sweetness of Don Ca Tai Tu. I realized that there were similarities and complementarities between the folk music of the Central and Southern regions, from which I applied my knowledge to create my own musical style. And fortunately, my products were loved and welcomed by the public. Most recently, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the country's reunification, the song "Hon uoc Bac Nam" written in the style of Southern folk songs was loved by the audience. That gave me more motivation to continue pursuing my passion.

Musician Pham Hong Bien (left)

PHOTO: NVCC

You mentioned the interesting connection between Central and Southern folk music. So how do you connect and blend these two genres of music to create uniqueness in your songs?

In some of my compositions, I have tried to combine Central Vietnamese folk melodies with Southern Vietnamese sounds. The way I blend the unique intervals of Central Vietnamese and Southern Vietnamese music creates a new color for my songs. If you listen carefully, you will hear that the way I ask the singer to sing exactly as I want them to is reminiscent of Central Vietnamese folk music. This blend not only creates uniqueness but also helps my music become closer to audiences in many regions.

Singer To My has successfully performed many of your songs. What factors contributed to the success of this collaboration?

To My and I have a special relationship in music and life. We understand each other and share a love for folk music. I try to exploit My's strengths and talents in singing, and My gives me new topics and suggestions for composing.

You have been the music director for many TV game shows. What experiences have you had working in this position?

As the music director for many TV game shows such as Idol Singer, Super Kid Talent Test, Bolero Peak, Still Singing Love Words, Memory Sky… I learned how to work in a team, manage production time and skills to reduce work pressure. This role helps me broaden my horizons, interact more with artists, partners, audiences and apply my experiences to music composition and production.

What do you share with young people who are passionate about music?

I see that young people today are very talented. For those who want to pursue their musical dreams, especially composing, always keep your passion, keep learning and persistently pursue your dreams. Write whenever you have an idea, don't be afraid of good or bad, but find your own identity. The more you write, the more experience you will gain. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself in many different roles in the music field.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nhac-si-mien-trung-me-cau-ho-dieu-ly-nam-bo-185250607210025847.htm