Central Highlands artists narrate daily life stories through gongs and songs (Video: Le Phuong Anh).
On the evening of November 6th, the Ho Van area, Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy (Hanoi) transformed into a special stage for the art program Red River Calls, Great Forest Roars.
The event was organized to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Central Highlands Gong Culture Space being recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity (November 25, 2005 – November 25, 2025), aiming to honor the heritage, identity, and spirit of solidarity of Vietnamese ethnic groups.
The concert was meticulously staged, with a floating stage designed on the surface of Ho Van Lake becoming the highlight of the program. A modern lighting system reflected onto the lake, creating a vibrant performance space where the sounds of gongs and drums from the Central Highlands intertwined with the ancient charm of the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy.
In that ambiance, the echoing sound of gongs opened a journey connecting the mountains and the plains.
The opening act, including Gong, Ca Dang, and Celebrating Victory, performed by the Gia Lai Gong Group, Tarzan Tay Nguyen, and the A Hu ethnic music group, brought the distinct festive atmosphere of the Central Highlands right into the heart of the Capital.
Notably, during the Celebrating Victory performance, artist Rcombus ignited the stage. With a wild performance style, powerful voice, and the ability to sing and dance simultaneously, he energized the atmosphere, prompting continuous cheers and applause from the audience to the rhythm of the gongs and drums.
One of the most impressive performances was by Meritorious Artist Ploong Thiet (second from right), a vocalist dubbed “the voice of the great forest.”
He performed two songs, Doi Mat Pleiku and Anh Muon Song Ben Em Tron Doi, accompanied by the Moc Gia Lai band. Ploong Thiet’s lyrical, poignant, and powerful melodies earned him multiple rounds of applause from the audience.
People’s Artist Ro Cham Pheng, who has dedicated her life to Central Highlands music, appeared in a vibrant brocade dress, performing two familiar songs, Bong Cay Konia and Co Gai Vot Chong, masterpieces that have become symbols of the mountains and forests.
In her 60s, her voice remained strong, profound, and full of emotion, bringing moving moments to the Hanoi audience.
People’s Artist Ro Cham Pheng’s performance concluded with extended applause, a tribute to an artist who has spent her life preserving and spreading Central Highlands music.
Without lyrics, only the lingering sounds of the instrument, Meritorious Artist Thuy Anh offered a deep moment with Tieng Chay Tren Soc Bom Bo (Pestle Sounds on Soc Bom Bo). The warm, rustic sound of the erhu echoed on the ancient stage, recalling the resilient people of the Central Highlands during challenging times.
Against the backdrop of the erhu, Brice Liem appeared as a dance illustrator, with movements harmonizing with the sound, recreating the rhythm of pestles in the great forest. The combination of music and physical expression created an emotionally rich highlight, bringing a fresh nuance to the performance space.
Bringing a fresh breeze to the program, singer Khang Ngoc performed Ngay Mai Anh Di and Dan Tingling with a modern style while retaining the original spirit of Central Highlands music.
His powerful voice, natural performance style, and high energy made him a highlight of the show, helping to connect young audiences with folk music heritage.
The program featured many special performances, such as: Ly Ca Phe Ban Me, Ngon Lua Cao Nguyen, H’Ren Len Ray, Giac Mo Chapi, and Chu Voi Con — familiar songs reimagined with modern arrangements, blending pop with ethnic influences.
The concert concluded with the song Noi Vong Tay Lon (Joining Hands), leaving a strong impression of unity and national pride. On stage, the performers expressed their gratitude to the audience and promised to meet again in future programs.
Below the stage, the Hanoi audience stood up and applauded, many moved by the melodies of the great forest echoing in the heart of the city. Praising the energetic and distinctly Central Highlands performance, they offered unceasing compliments.
Ms. Lan Huong (born 1960), who lives near the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy, said she was curious to attend because the program was free. She recorded many performances to keep as memories.
“I was truly surprised and moved because the program was so wonderful and meaningful. The artists performed with all their hearts on stage, providing an unforgettable experience for everyone,” said Ms. Lan Huong.
was not just a concert; it was a meeting of two cultural regions – where the gong heritage of the Central Highlands intertwined with the millennium-old spirit of Thang Long. The gongs, songs, and ethnic sounds resonated as a bridge connecting the past with the present, the great forest with the city, allowing Vietnamese culture to shine in shared pride.
