Ninh Binh makes efforts to preserve and revitalise "Xam" singing

Among the traditional Vietnamese art forms, "Xam" is something very simple, natural and familiar in people's lives. "Xam" songs are diverse in content, but all praise the love and human values, so it's loved and treasured by all. "Xam" artists should have a very powerful voice, to sing continuously for hours without the support of techniques.

In the past, "Xam" singing was considered to be the art of the poor. "Xam" artists, who were mainly blind, not only sang, they poured their hearts out when they performed as the songs featured their truly sad stories. That's one reason why the art form became so attractive and earned the empathy of its listeners.

While many folk art genres are dying out, "Xam" singing endures and still has a place in people's hearts and the music market. The genre has its own beauty, in its tones and rhythms, attractive and gorgeous.

Former Yen Mo district in the northern province of Ninh Binh, which is considered the cradle of "Xam" singing, is the hometown of Meritorious Artist Ha Thi Cau (1917-2013). This is the so-called 'last humane treasure of Xam' and the most famous artisan of this genre.

After artist Ha Thi Cau passed away in 2013, "Xam" singing in Yen Mo district faced the risk of disappearing. Few people thought "Xam" singing would exist until now. It continues to attract more people through public performances, events, festivals and classes in many schools across the district.

In a bid to preserve and promote the value of this art genre, the People's Committee of Yen Tu commune (former Yen Mo district) has opened many classes to teach "Xam" singing. Most young learners are practicing "Xam" singing in many clubs in the locality and they joined in performances to introduce and popularise the art to the public and transfer it to younger generations.

Yen Tu commune is now home to 100 "Xam" singing clubs which play an important role in preserving and promoting the value of "Xam" singing and seeking UNESCO's recognition as the World's Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The enthusiatic participation of young people play a vital role in preseving and promoting the value of Xam singing in Yen Tu commune in Ninh Binh.