The enduring vitality of Then melodies in Bach Xa

Located more than 80 kilometers from the center of Tuyen Quang Province, Bach Xa Commune is home to many ethnic minority people. Despite difficult living conditions, local people have always preserved their cultural identity, particularly through Then singing and the Tinh gourd club.

A Then singing practice session of the Then singing and Tinh gourd club in Bach Xa Commune.

Established in 2013 with 14 members, the club has now developed to 20 members.

Nong Thi Bien from Dem Hamlet, head of the club, said: “The club is not only a place for members to learn about and experience their cultural identity, such as language and traditional costumes, but also a space where people share both joy and hardship in their lives.”

Members of the club regularly practice Then singing.

Every week, club members gather for regular practice sessions. During festivals and holidays, they actively take part in cultural performances in the locality.

To bring fresh elements to traditional songs, members choreograph background dances themselves and use folk instruments, making their performances more engaging.

Members of the club wear traditional Tay ethnic costumes during performances.

Through these simple yet meaningful activities, the club has contributed to preserving and enriching the cultural identity of ethnic minority communities in the province.

Huyen Linh