Promoting traditional music through small stage models

Xam singing exchange at Mita House organized by Friends of Vietnam Heritage (FVH) in collaboration with Ha Thanh Xam Group.

Introducing Xam to international visitors

Although the scale was not large and the number of guests was limited, the exchange truly became a cultural bridge - where Xam art was spread in the most intimate and authentic way.

Not just a performance, the exchange program organized by FVH brings the audience a multi-dimensional experience: listening, feeling, exchanging, and even trying out traditional musical instruments. This is what makes Xam closer to modern listeners, especially international audiences who have never heard of this art form.

In addition to familiar faces such as artists Mai Tuyet Hoa, Van Hai..., the exchange is also an opportunity for young artists to demonstrate their role as successors. For example, Pham Trang (mono bau), or Nam Khanh (bamboo flute) - the enthusiastic young faces of the Ha Thanh Xam Group - not only participated in the performance, but also actively shared about the process of learning, practicing and creating with the art of Xam. With their natural performance style and close approach, they contributed to creating a harmony between tradition and modernity, helping young audiences and foreigners feel the liveliness of this art form.

The highlight of the program is the storytelling integrated into the music . Leading and telling the story in the exchange is music researcher Nguyen Quang Long - who has devoted many years of dedication to restoring and developing the art of Xam. He shares about the journey of blind artists, wandering everywhere to make a living by singing, and emphasizes the importance of preserving Xam not only in the music but also in the accompanying cultural context.

The appearance of artist Mai Tuyet Hoa - a student of the late artist Ha Thi Cau - made the atmosphere even more solemn. She not only performed ancient melodies but also told authentic stories about the lives of Xam artists, sometimes surprising choices, but always filled with passion and perseverance for a heritage that at times seemed to have receded into the past.

The audience is not only an audience but also a participant. After each performance, the artists invite guests to try playing musical instruments, follow the rhythm, and even learn to sing a short Xam verse. Laughter and applause resounded, creating a warm, friendly atmosphere, breaking down all language or cultural barriers. In the exchange performance at the end of the program, two guests from France and Japan spontaneously joined the artists, using flutes and simple percussion instruments. Although they were just simple sounds, that moment of exchange demonstrated the spirit of learning and respecting local culture - true to the spirit that FVH aims for in every event.

The effectiveness of the small stage model

Artist Mai Tuyet Hoa - a familiar face in contemporary Xam performances - shared that each time she performs in a small and cozy space like this event, it brings her special emotions. "Performing in an intimate space helps me approach the audience more clearly, feeling their excitement when joining in with the performance. From there, I also see how Xam begins to infiltrate their spiritual life" - the artist shared.

According to music researcher Nguyen Quang Long, organizing Xam performances in small spaces not only creates conditions for artists and audiences to get closer together, but also brings about artistic experiences rich in emotion and depth. It is this closeness and interactivity that makes the audience not only listen but also truly participate in the cultural story being told through lyrics and clappers. From there, it can be affirmed that this is a very effective way to preserve and develop national culture.

In addition, positive signals in preserving and promoting the value of Xam art were also shared. For example, young artists of the Ha Thanh Xam Group have brought Xam to digital platforms, created illustrative videos , and combined Xam with modern elements to attract young people. This is a strategic approach, helping Xam "survive" in the competitive environment of contemporary entertainment culture.

Friends of Vietnam Heritage, founded by foreigners who love Vietnamese culture, has become an important bridge between Vietnamese heritage and international friends. With the spirit of learning, exploring and respecting local culture, FVH not only organizes tours to museums and craft villages, but also organizes small-scale but high-quality talks and performances. Through this, they are contributing to spreading love for traditional values ​​in a natural and sustainable way.

In the near future, FVH and the Hanoi Xam Group also plan to organize exchanges on specific topics, such as Xam in ancient urban life, Xam with current events, or Xam telling folk stories. This is a direction that allows for the exploitation of the depth of Xam's content, while also creating conditions for the public to better understand the ideological and artistic values ​​of this genre. Themed exchanges will also expand cooperation opportunities with other fields such as theater, cinema, and media, helping Xam spread more strongly in contemporary cultural life.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/quang-ba-am-nhac-truyen-thong-qua-mo-hinh-san-khau-nho-703384.html