I have never done a program as big as "What Remains Forever"

Besides the purpose of commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army, is the use of military artists a novel and interesting addition that the composer wants to offer the audience?

Composer Tran Manh Hung: In my life as a musician, I've never done a program this big. I myself feel this year's program is demanding, but there was no other choice. I'd like to add that each year, "Things That Remain" aims to bring different levels of emotion to the public.

Emotions are very diverse. Plants and flowers are emotions, love is an emotion, longing is an emotion… This year's emotion is about honoring sacred values, the spirit of the mountains and rivers, so we certainly cannot ignore it.

As for the selection of artists and singers, I choose based on their suitability for the performance. Some performances require solo singing, while others require choral singing.

This year features many choral performances that will bring audiences moments of musical exhilaration and excitement. In addition, there will also be a group of singers performing in a boy band style, suitable for other songs.

As for upbeat, combat-oriented songs, anything related to the military, I know the "Military Uniform" group. Compared to other vocal groups, they are very special. They are special because they always sing with the spirit of a soldier: without thinking about themselves individually.

While boy bands often have members with their own unique styles, the "Military Uniform" group is highly organized and meticulous about notes, pitch, and rhythmic precision. Furthermore, their stage presence perfectly suits this year's theme.

I've also worked with the Army Choir many times and they've made a very strong impression on me. Although they're just a male military choir that might seem unfamiliar to the public, please look forward to their performance. I believe they will shine this year.

As the first foreign conductor to participate in the national concert "Things That Remain," what are your impressions, and did you encounter any difficulties in approaching Vietnamese revolutionary songs?

Conductor Olivier Ochanine: This is a national concert celebrating Vietnam's National Day, but it's being conducted by a French conductor, which shows how friendly the Vietnamese people are and how they don't hold onto past impressions.

I am deeply honored and proud to participate. I have lived and worked in Vietnam for 7 years, and I love and cherish every moment of my life here. However, Vietnamese is very difficult, so I have to dedicate time to studying the musical scores and meanings of the lyrics, learning anytime, anywhere, even on tonight's flight. I am moved and honored to be part of "Things That Remain".

I love Vietnam. I find the Vietnamese people warm and welcoming. I am a French and American citizen, but since coming to Vietnam in 2015, I've found the Vietnamese people to be very kind to me. One thing that impressed me is that you can talk to anyone on the street, something you can't do in France or the US. This made my musical experience more enjoyable and wonderful, and in the orchestra, everyone treated me like family.

As a classical singer, what are your feelings about participating in "Things That Remain" this year? What kind of pressure are you under, and what preparations are you making to meet the program's demands?

Singer Nguyen Bao Yen: I studied in Russia for about 10 years, so for many years I only watched the "Things That Remain" concert from afar. Last year, I was able to attend in person and watched from beginning to end, leaving me deeply moved. For everyone, "Things That Remain" is a meaningful program, meaningful both in content and location. Especially for artists, particularly those who sing Vietnamese classical and revolutionary music, the opportunity to perform on the "Things That Remain" stage is a longing.

Performing at the Grand Theatre on such a momentous day, at a time of great significance for the entire nation, singing with a symphony orchestra, and working with highly professional composers and music directors is a dream and an honor for any artist.

This year is my first time participating in "The Lasting Legacy." The pressure is immense. Composer Tran Manh Hung and conductor Olivier Ochanine are both highly professional and meticulous in their work.

There was also the pressure of performing at the Grand Theatre, broadcast live on television, with high-ranking officials in the audience. But it was these things that motivated me and made me realize I needed to concentrate intensely.

To prepare for the upcoming program, I received the musical score from composer Tran Manh Hung very early on and am currently practicing. Soon, I will be working privately with Mr. Tran Manh Hung and the conductor, hoping to bring high-quality and professional performances to the program.

Even though I studied abroad for 10 years and learned to sing international songs, I've always been aware that as a Vietnamese person, I must sing Vietnamese music and not lose my national identity.

Source: https://www.baogiaothong.vn/nhac-si-tran-manh-hung-toi-chua-tung-lam-chuong-trinh-nao-lon-nhu-dieu-con-mai-192240821135322499.htm