Singers are performing "Xoan singing", a traditional art form originating in northern Phu Tho province. (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) – The nomination paper for Xoan𒀰 singing to be recognised as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity must be submitted to UNESCO before March 31.
The Prime Minister assigned the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO to prepare all necessary paperwork for the nomination.
Xoan singing originates in northern Phu Tho province and is performed in communal halls during spring festivals. For this reason, it is also called “hat cua dinh” (singing in front of the communal house).
It is believed to date back to the time of the Hung kings (2890 BC to 250 BC).
It is a form of entertainment, but it also honours the Hung kings, the founders of the nation, and village guardian spirits; appeals for good health, weather and harvests; and depicts daily life in rural areas.
The singing is accompanied by dancing and musical instruments, such as clappers and drums.
Four Xoan guilds still exist: An Thai, Phu Duc, Kim Doi and Thet in Kim Duc and Phuong Lau communes of Phu Tho province.-VNA
The northeast province of Phu Tho is undertaking all necessary actions to preserve and revive Xoan singing, according to Vice-Chairman of the People's Committee of the northern province of Phu Tho.
Xoan singing has truly revived, a cultural and puppetry expert from Indonesia remarked following a Xoan performance in the northern province of Phu Tho on October 8.
Phu Tho province's cultural authority has said the introduction of xoan singing in schools will play a major role in preserving and promoting the provincial heritage.
“Hat Xoan” (Xoan singing) in Vietnam’s northern province of Phu Tho, has been revived after its recognition as an intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding by UNESCO.
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Singers are performing "Xoan singing", a traditional art form originating in northern Phu Tho province. (Photo: VNA)
