VietNamNet Bridge – Scenes in the latest music video by singer Pham Phuong Thao revive a traditional ceremony that dates back 600 years to welcome young men home who had successfully qualified to enter the royal court.

The scholar with the highest score brought great pride and honour to his family and village. — Screenshot photo from the video clip

The video, entitled Chang Vinh Quy, honours the country’s tradition of studying that has lasted since feudalism in the 15th century.

In the past, young men tested their literary skills to compete for a place in court, where they received royal proclamations and titles.

The top scholars became mandarins and rewarded with beautiful costumes and invited to attend a royal feast.

After a ceremony to honour their achievements at the imperial palace, they would return to their villages to pay tribute to the ancestors.

The scholar with the highest score was given the title Trang Nguyen and was welcomed home by a parade of ceremonial music troupes and soldiers, bringing great pride and honour to his family and village.

Thao started the project two years ago, and composed and performed the song with 200 supporting actors and actresses. The video gathered seven directors led by veteran director Khai Hung, who is well-known for his TV series but had never shot a music video.

When a man gained entry to the royal court, he gained respect from his village.

“People know about my films, but this time I decided to help Thao make this video because I found the folk aspect interesting,” he said.

Thao said she spent a lot of time and effort on the video after dreaming of working on a musical piece featuring traditional culture.

“With folk music, the songs are easy to feel and sympathise with,” she said.

Thao officially released the video on Wednesday to celebrate 20 years working as a professional singer. 

Source: VNS