The 13th annual "Things Everlasting" National Concert - an event of profound national significance - was held on September 2nd at the Hanoi Opera House.

This year’s concert, like those before it, aimed to honor Vietnam’s musical heritage and spread the message of love for the homeland and national pride.

A startling introduction with a global touch

The concert opened with a powerful rendition of Vietnam’s national anthem, "Tien Quan Ca," conducted by French maestro Olivier Fabrice Ochanine.

Draped in a traditional Vietnamese áo dài designed by Miss Vietnam Ngoc Han, Ochanine led the Sun Symphony Orchestra - a gathering of international musicians - in a performance that set the stage for an evening filled with both historical reflection and heartfelt emotion.

"Music transcends borders; it is a universal language that connects people from all walks of life," Ochanine shared. "I am honored to be part of this special event celebrating Vietnam's National Day. The warmth and openness of the Vietnamese people make this country feel like home to many, including myself."

A musical journey through history

The concert unfolded as a seamless narrative, with each piece of music serving as a chapter in Vietnam’s storied history. The Sun Symphony Orchestra, along with the Kosmos Opera Choir, brought to life the stirring notes of "Ode to President Ho Chi Minh" by composer Van Cao.

Under Ochanine's baton, the music became a living chronicle, depicting the triumphs and struggles of the Vietnamese people under the leadership of President Ho Chi Minh, from the early resistance in the Viet Bac war zone to the jubilant liberation of Hanoi.

Every piece performed reflected the deep historical and cultural roots of Vietnam, from the resilient spirit of the Dien Bien Phu campaign to the national pride of reclaiming the capital. These moments, immortalized in music, are not just national treasures but are recognized worldwide as symbols of resilience and hope.

The legacy of leadership and the spirit of youth

"The Things Everlasting concert series continues to breathe life into Vietnam’s musical legacy," said composer Tran Manh Hung, who arranged many of the evening’s pieces.

"Each of the 15 works selected for this concert tells a vivid story, with a particular emphasis on compositions that honor President Ho Chi Minh. These pieces capture the essence of his leadership and the indelible mark he left on Vietnam and the world."

Among the highlights was the vibrant and youthful performance of "The Ballad of Ho Chi Minh" by the OPlus band, a modern reimagining of the song that highlighted the global recognition of Ho Chi Minh as a cultural and historical icon.

Young musicians, like saxophonist An Tran, also shone during the concert. Tran, who played Tinh Ca Tay Bac (The Western Highlands Song) brought a fresh, emotional depth to the performance. Her participation symbolized the continuity of Vietnam’s rich musical tradition, bridging the past and the future.

A resounding conclusion

The evening closed with a powerful performance of "Vietnam, My Homeland" by composer Do Nhuan, a fitting end to a concert that celebrated both the historical and contemporary significance of Vietnam's cultural heritage.

"The Things Everlasting" concert is not just a musical event; it is a bridge connecting past, present, and future, reminding us all of the enduring values of our nation. Each composition, each note, carried the weight of history and the hope for a brighter future.

As the final notes faded, the audience was left with a profound sense of pride and connection to the nation’s enduring legacy - a sentiment that will undoubtedly inspire future generations.

Tran Le Chien

Photos: Pham Hai