TVU – Featuring an ensemble performance blending traditional Khmer musical instruments with modern ones, the program “Echoes of Identity” painted a colorful picture rich in national culture, filled with emotional and expressive sounds.
On the evening of October 5, a large number of lecturers and students of Tra Vinh University attended the “Echoes of Identity” program at Lecture Hall D5, organized by the College of Southern Khmer Language – Culture – Arts and Humanity (CLASKA).
The event was attended by Dr. Thach Thi Dan, Vice Rector of Tra Vinh University; Dr. Ngo So Phe, Rector of the CLASKA; leaders of TVU’s affiliated units; and many artists and artisans from both within and outside Vinh Long province.
Through the performances, the attendees experienced the distinctive characteristics of various ethnic musical instruments and felt the harmony between traditional melodies and modern tones.
Most attendees were deeply impressed by the program, as “Echoes of Identity” was not merely a graduation performance but a carefully staged cultural showcase. The event featured performances by students majoring in Traditional Musical Instrument Performance (classes of 2020 and 2021), along with skilled Khmer artists and artisans. They performed using traditional Khmer instruments such as Skor Thom (large drum), Skor Sompho (small drum), Roneat Ek (shaped boat xylophone with one bridge), Roneat Thung (xylophone with four bridges), Roneat Dek (metal xylophone), Kong Tuoch (small gong), Kong Thum (large gong), Chhing (small cymbals), and Srolai (flute).
Each instrument was precisely tuned to ensure harmonic balance within the ensemble, creating a unique blend of sounds — from deep and resonant tones to bright and soaring melodies, from sweet and lyrical to powerful and emotional. In addition to instrumental performances, graceful Khmer dances added to the distinct cultural atmosphere of the evening.
Pham Phan Phong Phu, an IT student from the class of 2024, shared: “This was one of the most captivating and large-scale ethnic art performances I have ever seen. The program evoked deep emotions and reflected the vibrant cultural identity of the Khmer community in the Mekong Delta.”
“This major allows us to preserve and promote traditional music, especially Khmer folk music of the Southern region, and to serve the community through folk art performances. We also explore new scientific and technological advances in music to better protect and develop national music heritage,” said Son Tuan Kiet, a student majoring in Traditional Musical Instrument Performance (Class of 2020). He added that students in this program receive 100% tuition exemption and a monthly stipend of VND 450,000 throughout their studies.
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The Traditional Musical Instrument Performance program aims to equip students with fundamental knowledge in social sciences, politics, law, and information technology, along with practical skills in planning, managing, and performing in the field of traditional and folk music — especially the Southern Khmer music heritage. Students gain a solid foundation in music theory, history, harmony, and orchestration, enabling them to analyze and perform musical works effectively. The program also encourages learners to apply their knowledge to real-life cultural and artistic activities, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Vietnam’s traditional music. |
LAN ANH
