More and more young people are working to save national folk music “ca
tru” (ceremonial singing), which is on the list of intangible cultural
heritages in need of urgent safeguarding.
Many have
spent significant amounts of time and money attending courses, in some
cases for many years, or have been studying online recordings
thoroughly, according to musician Dang Hoanh Loan.
The national “ca tru” festival currently being held in Hanoi has
attracted nearly 30 troupes from 12 provinces and cities throughout the
country, mainly from younger generations.
The event,
the fifth of its kind so far, is part of a national programme to
preserve and develop “ca tru”, which was recognised as an intangible
cultural heritage in need of protection by UNESCO in 2009.
Around 130 sets are planned to be performed between August 26 and August 29.
To repopularise the traditional art form, musician Loan suggested
running “ca tru” classes regularly and on an annual basis, and adopting
measures to support mature and experienced artists who are now few and
far between.
Deputy head of the Vietnam Institute of
Musicology Pham Minh Huong is of the same opinion and argues that
preserving “ca tru” is not only the responsibility of state agencies but
also communities home to cultural heritages.
“Ca
tru” appeared in the North around the 15th century and thrived until the
early 20th century. Since then, it has decreased in popularity due to
the spread of modern recreational and cultural activities. Today, this
kind of singing is practised in 15 provinces and cities throughout
Vietnam.-VNA