Xoan singing eyes UNESCO’s recognition

Xoan singers are performing – Illustration photo

The dossier will be complete before March 31.

Xoan singing is a famous art in 15 communes of the northern province of Phú Thọ. So far, there are around 69 singer-artisans, 49 old people (at least 60 years old) can sing xoan tunes, and 81 people joining xoan troupes. 

The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Phú Thọ Province has established four xoan singing troupes namely An Thái, Thét, Phù Đức and Kim Đái in Việt Trì City.

Xoan singing was once performed at 30 communal houses but now only 13 venues are in operation.

It is reported that xoan singing appeared from time immemorial and was usually performed in front of communal houses during the village festivals in the spring. The folk song is so-called Hát cửa đình (singing in front of the communal houses).

Each xoan singing group consists of 10-15 people led by a principal singer. The costume of a male singer includes a four-flapped gown, a turban and white trousers while the costumes of a female singer are a five-flapped gown, a white loose-fitting blouse, a belt, brassiere bands of different colors, and silk skirts.

The combination between the sweet singing voice and colorful costumes of singers makes the performance profound and attractive.

By Khánh Phương