PANO – Local famous photographer Nguyen A is running a photo exhibition on “Don ca tai tu” (the traditional southern Vietnamese folk music) at the Youth Cultural House in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visitors at the exhibition.

With the title “Don ca tai tu - The lyrics of the country”, the exhibited photos were taken by the artist in 21 Southern provinces and cities over a two year period.

They feature memorable moments from the music genre officially recognized as a part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on February 11th 2014, to vivid images of contributions and activities of singers and composers, to the genre’s preservation and development.

Known as a musical art that has both scholarly and folk roots, “Don ca tai tu” was developed in southern Vietnam in the late 19th century. The art is performed at numerous events, such as festivals, death anniversary rituals and celebratory occasions. Audiences can join in by offering feedback to singers and suggesting new lyrics for songs.

Translated by Pham Huy