Brian Jeffrey
Every year on September 2nd at 2 PM, the Hanoi Opera House hosts “Things Everlasting,” a beloved cultural event that commemorates the declaration of independence of Vietnam. This event has become a significant occasion that brings together people from all over the country to celebrate the nation’s musical heritage and spirit of pride and patriotism.
The concert is a testament to the dedication and passion of those involved in preserving Vietnam’s rich musical legacy, showcasing performances that honor the country’s history and culture. The commitment to this program over more than a decade is evident in each heartfelt performance.
The concert culminates with a powerful rendition of “Vietnam Que Huong Toi” by composer Do Nhuan, arranged by Tran Manh Hung for the orchestra and performed by all the artists involved. This final act beautifully encapsulates the evening, celebrating both the country’s cultural heritage and the enduring resilience of its people.
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3:30 PM: Showcasing “Return to the Capital,” “March to Hanoi,” and “The People of Hanoi”
These songs pay homage to the historical significance of Hanoi and reflect the unwavering optimism and determination of its people in the face of challenges. The rendition of “Nguoi Ha Noi” by Khanh Ngoc, clad in a beautifully embroidered pink ao dai, was a standout moment, resonating deeply with the audience and showcasing her emotional connection to the music and the city.
For the first time, the concert featured an international collaboration, with the participation of the Sun Symphony Orchestra and French conductor Olivier Ochanine. This fusion of Vietnamese and international talent added a new dimension to the concert, weaving musical narratives spanning past, present, and future. The global significance of Vietnam’s musical heritage was underscored by the presence of international artists, bringing a fresh perspective to the performance.
3:20 PM: Presenting “The Ballad of Ho Chi Minh”
Popular Vietnamese band Oplus injected new energy into “The Ballad of Ho Chi Minh,” captivating the audience with a modern yet traditional rendition of the classic song. The band’s unique interpretation paid homage to the original composition while infusing it with their distinctive style, engaging the listeners with their performance.
3:10 PM: Showcasing “Tình ca Tây Bắc” (The Song of Northwest)
Through poignant melodies, musicians commemorate the liberation of Dien Bien, capturing the essence of joy within the ethnic communities of the Northwestern region. These songs have become symbols of national pride, celebrating the beauty and significance of life and love in a peaceful and prosperous Vietnam. The rendition of “Tình ca Tây Bắc” by saxophonist An Tran, the youngest artist in the lineup, exemplified this sentiment, reflecting the enduring spirit of *Things Everlasting 2024*.
Saxophonist An Tran, daughter of musician Tran Manh Tuan, captivated the audience with her exceptional performance at “Things Everlasting.”
Last year, An Tran mesmerized the crowd in an ao dai, and this year, she showcased her talent in a stylized ethnic brocade outfit, breathing life into the timeless piece, “Tình ca Tây Bắc,” with her remarkable saxophone skills.
3:04 PM: Presenting “Qua miền Tây Bắc” – “Chiến thắng Điện Biên Phủ”
Following this performance was “Qua miền Tây Bắc – Chiến thắng Điện Biên Phủ” by Nguyen Thanh and Do Nhuan, conducted by Trinh Thanh Binh and performed by the Kosmos Opera Chorus.
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These timeless songs, born amidst adversity, evoke the steadfast spirit of liberation soldiers and ignite a deep sense of patriotism among the audience.
3:00 PM: Showcasing “Marching Under the Military Flag”
Across generations, these songs continue to stir emotions and evoke a strong sense of national pride, honoring a heroic chapter in Vietnam’s history. The performance of “Marching Under the Military Flag” by the Ao Linh Group, composed by Doan Nho, pays tribute to the valor of the Vietnam People’s Army.
This year, the ‘Things Everlasting’ National Concert featured an international collaboration for the first time. With the participation of the Sun Symphony Orchestra led by French conductor Olivier Ochanine, both local and international artists came together to narrate musical tales spanning time.
In addition to veteran performers, the stage witnessed the debut of young talents in this year’s performances, including singer Nguyen Bao Yen and the Ao Linh Group, comprised of military artists, signifying a seamless transition of messages of love for the homeland and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people in times of peace and conflict.
2:25 PM: Showcasing “Ho Keo Phao” and “Be Van Dan Lives Forever”
This special program, reflecting the sentiments of millions, pays tribute to the homeland on this important national day. Through works like “Ho Keo Phao” by Hoang Van and performed by Phuc Tiep and the Kosmos Opera Chorus, “Be Van Dan Lives Forever” by Huy Du and performed by Trong Tan, and the Symphonic Poem Dien Bien Phu composed by Tran Manh Hung and performed by the Sun Symphony Orchestra, the audience is reminded of the courageous years and instilled with renewed pride in their country and heritage.
2:17 PM: Presenting “Song on the Mountain”
Debuting at Things Everlasting 2024, singer Nguyen Bao Yen brought her unique perspective to the stage. After years of studying in Russia and admiring the program from afar, she finally had a chance to perform and leave her emotional mark on the audience. Standing on the stage, she delivered a captivating rendition of “Song on the Mountain,” embodying the essence of the event.
**Reviving National Pride Through Music**
**Performance of “Praise to President Ho Chi Minh”**
The concert began with a powerful rendition of “Praise to President Ho Chi Minh” by the Kosmos Opera Chorus and the Sun Symphony Orchestra.
**Flag-Raising Ceremony and “Tien Quan Ca”**
The iconic song “Tien Quan Ca” was performed during the flag-raising ceremony, setting a patriotic tone for the event. The Sun Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of conductor Olivier Ochanine, delivered a captivating performance.
**Honoring Historical Milestones**
This year’s concert not only honored the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory but also celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army. The performance of “Hanh Quan Xa” by the Ao Linh Group encapsulated the heroic spirit of these significant milestones.
**Features of Things Everlasting 2024**
Editor-in-Chief Nguyen Van Ba highlighted the importance of commemorating historical events through music. The integration of French conductor Olivier Ochanine and the Sun Symphony Orchestra added a new dynamic to the concert, showcasing the fusion of Vietnamese and international talent.
**Cultural Exchange and National Identity**
Through the universal language of music, the concert aimed to showcase Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage to the world. Editor-in-Chief Nguyen Van Ba emphasized the role of music in promoting Vietnam as a land of peace, prosperity, and beauty, bridging the gap between past glory and future aspirations.
