A Journey through Aesthetic Realms
 
Traditional Folk Music from Northern Âu Lạc (Việt Nam)   


Quan Ho is an Aulacese ancient folk song genre which is very popular in the delta region of northern Âu Lạc. This singing style expresses sweet sentiments; it is rich in tunes and closely associated with activities taking place at the courtyard in the temple or communal house, by the banyan tree or river pier. Quan Họ’s content often portrays the importance of kindness and loyalty in all relations in the family and community.

Xẩm singing is an Aulacese genre used by the troubadours in the olden time. According to the Đại Nam National Language Dictionary compiled by scholar Paulus Huỳnh Tịnh Của, the word “xẩm” means “dark” or “blind.” Legend has it that xẩm singing was founded by Prince Trần Quốc Đĩnh, a son of King Trần Thánh Tông in the 13th  century. The prince himself became sightless after a calamity which forced him to live among the commoners. He kindheartedly taught xẩm singing to the blind to give them a means to earn a living by performing on the streets. Therefore, xẩm singing is often associated with blind minstrels. Nowadays, wandering xẩm singing no longer exists, but has become an on-stage performance as a unique traditional art. Besides the main styles such as market, love or ten favors of gratitude, xẩm singers also perform other folk tunes beautifully. Musical instruments which accompany xẩm singing include the two-string lute, two-string vertical fiddle, a thin drum, a set of wooden bells, and sometimes the flute.


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