The launch of the free folk music class, May 27, 2024. (Photo: VOV)

The free folk music class operates during the summer with no limit on the number or age of participants, who are taught about the history of Vietnamese folk music and learn how to play traditional musical instruments.

Truong Tai Linh, who is working at the Ninh Kieu District Cultural and Broadcasting Center,  serves as one of the teachers. “In the era of Industry 4.0, when young people mainly listen to international music through the internet, it is a challenge to open this class to teach the students to understand and love traditional music. Fortunately, we have received a positive public response,” Linh said.

The one-month-old class has attracted a large number of participants. Phan Thien Phuc and Diep Van Phat were so excited about their performances.

“When I performed a folk song, I felt proud of our homeland. The teachers here play beautiful music and I wanted to join the class. I want to learn how to play the two-string instrument.”

“I find folk music very interesting. I have practiced playing ‘Ly cay bong’ many times. This folk song has a heartfelt melody.”

To respond to the effort to preserve the values of folk culture, the free folk music class has received support from many individuals and organizations.

Children in Can Tho learn to sing folk songs and play traditional musical instruments. (Photo: VOV)

“This is part of the summer campaign to create a playground for young people on weekends. Our center also plans to work with the Khmer Theravada Buddhist Academy to open a class on Ngu Am music, which uses different specialized musical instruments for music lovers in general and Khmer ethnic people in particular. This is also one of the conceptual education-oriented programs for youth union members, teenagers, and children,” said Phuong Tan Dat, Director of The Center for Student Support and Services.

The free folk music class model is expected to expand to other primary, secondary, and high schools in Can Tho City.