Tan An Commune in Chiem Hoa District is not only famous for its huge water bodies but also for being one of the cradles of traditional ‘Then’ songs. Many children have joined in ‘Then’ singing and ‘Tinh gourd lute’ clubs since they were six or seven years old.

People’s Artisan Ha Thuan in Tan An Commune, Chiem Hoa District, instructing children in singing ‘Then’ songs and playing ‘Tinh gourd lute’.

Tuyen Quang’s first People’s Artisan Ha Thuan, in Tan An Commune, has made great contributions to restoring and preserving ancient ‘Then’ songs as well as bringing the traditional art form closer to the people. Despite his old age, he still avidly studies and collects the ancient ‘Then’ songs, while teaching local children to sing ‘Then’ melodies and playing ‘Tinh gourd lute’. He said that ‘Then’ singing is a cultural treasure that needs to be preserved and passed on to the next generations. It is crucial to encourage younger generations to understand and love ‘Then’ singing.

‘Tinh gourd lute’ is a traditional musical instrument that can be played solo to serve for singing and dancing as well as in accompaniment with other instruments. It has a soft and elegant timbre. Many artisans in Tuyen Quang Province have spent a lot of time and effort to create the traditional instrument.

For Tay ethnic people, ‘Then’ singing and ‘Tinh gourd lute’ are always present in their daily life, particularly in spiritual rituals. The ‘Then’ singing ritual of Tuyen Quang Province’s Tay people was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2012.