Returning to Bac Lieu this time, I came back to a warm and welcoming atmosphere which connected the talented person and future generations through beautiful lyrics of the Da Co Hoai Lang song. In the surroundings of honoring Don Ca Tai Tu, the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, we greatly appreciate our ancestors who not only expanded and developed the country, but also explored, inherited and transformed the music originated from the royal palace into folk music, which has then emitted and ran through rice fields and canals into people.  

Viewing the memorial of Southern Don Ca Tai Tu and the late Cao Van Lau artist, I am very touched by Bac Lieu’s meaningful project. I always remember uncle Cao Van Lau. In his time, our country was at war. His works reflected the voice of our people in believing for a better future. Those who do good deeds for their people will never be forgotten. Therefore, I believe that if we live well for our country, our people, no one will forget us as we never forget uncle Sau Lau. In such a respectful environment of the festival, allow me to express my gratitude to uncle Sau Lau, the Southern son, who had contributed to the creation of the music from which cai luong inherited, preserved and developed. My master, People’s Artist Phung Ha, said “Those who contribute to bring reputation and teach traditional folk music are considered ancestors.” As an artist, the more one appreciates the country and folk music ancestors, the more emotionally effective and creative one is. Stories about uncle Sau Lau, about Bac Lieu province and the Da Co Hoai Lang song have become part of the history, culture, music and Southern people. The phrases of “luong trong tin chang” (awaiting husband) and “dang chu an binh an” (wishing you safe) in the song reflected Vietnamese traditional characters of faithfulness, loyalty, and chivalry. They remind generations about the eternal philosophy and moral values of the South particularly and Viet Nam in general. Thanks Bac Lieu, thanks each grain of salt for being salty but not acrid, and the big but peaceful sea. I am grateful to traditional lyrics and good hearts for making this province a place that gathers good souls and the nation’s cultural values. Once again Bac Lieu plays the drum and the inspiration of the great artist Cao Van Lau. Bac Lieu today is full of potential and energy, has a growing economy and society, and still preserves the treasure of traditional folk music.

When visiting the first national Don Ca Tai Tu festival at Bac Lieu, I think Bac Lieu hosted it successfully despite difficulties. Most of provinces and cities are proud of the art of Don Ca Tai Tu that was just recognized as the cultural heritage of humanity. We had a shared responsibility in creating this success. But above all, the wonderful efforts of Bac Lieu province are highly appreciated for hosting the first event to honor the art of Don Ca Tai Tu.

People’s Artist, PhD. Bach Tuyet Bac Lieu Online (23/05/2014)