Sweet folk songs

(Baonghean) - With the belief that preserving the cultural identity of each region means preserving the character and soul of each person, the folk songs he composed are imbued with humanistic values ​​and the breath of life, making those who leave remember them fondly and those who remain cherish their homeland even more…

Cao Xuan Thuong was born and raised in Phuong Lich village, Dien Hoa commune (Dien Chau district), where the tranquil Bung River has been immortalized in music and poetry, and is the cradle of the rich and profound folk songs of the weaving guild. Therefore, Cao Xuan Thuong knew and loved folk songs from a young age, accompanying his father to listen to these songs at the Phuong Lich village communal house.

Mr. Cao Xuan Thuong teaches folk songs to members of the Dien Hoa Club at Phuong Lich communal house.

Composing folk songs is not just a refined pastime for retirees, but a laborious and serious process for Cao Xuan Thuong. He dedicates much time to collecting and researching folk culture. Through his research, he realized that in addition to ancient melodies that need preservation, there is a need for new works that are closer to contemporary life, to create a vibrant force for folk songs. He confided: "I don't write based on ancient songs, but I don't diminish the essence of folk songs. Instead, I try to make the folk songs in the melodies more relatable to contemporary life, creating a satirical and humorous element to evoke laughter, making life more joyful, full of affection, and fostering empathy. That's why my works like 'Song of the Fields,' 'On the Riverbank of My Hometown,' and 'Cuong Temple Festival' have been well-received by many."

The folk songs and humorous skits he composed reached the hands of the farmer-artists in Dien Hoa commune; everyone liked them, knew them by heart, and performed them at village festivals. Cao Xuan Thuong's folk songs often depicted scenes from the lives of the villagers, familiar and easily touching people's hearts. The lyrics were simple, pure, and heartfelt, often telling stories of farming, love between couples, moral conduct, how to live a virtuous life... or the joys and sorrows of farmers with muddy hands and feet... deeply imbued with folk spirit.

People appreciate Cao Xuan Thuong's compositions for their witty and humorous verses, profound and playful wordplay, and playful banter full of hidden meanings and deep emotions. Ms. Cao Thi Bich Lam, who has performed Cao Xuan Thuong's works many times, shared: "Mr. Thuong's works have left a deep impression on us; we almost know all the melodies he wrote by heart." Experts consider Cao Xuan Thuong's works "a fresh, unique addition that makes folk songs more appealing and closer to people's lives." Ms. Trinh Thi Hong Luu, Deputy Director of the Nghe An Folk Song Preservation Center, stated: "Through the Nghe An folk song festivals at the cluster and provincial levels, we are delighted to see Mr. Thuong's works are of very high quality, arguably even professional. From ancient folk songs and folk literature, he has created songs imbued with the breath of life."

At the 2013 Nghe An Folk Song Festival, all the performances by the Dien Chau delegation were works composed by Mr. Cao Xuan Thuong. These included the theatrical performance "The Wine Seller," "Summer Story," and the call-and-response song "On the Riverbank of My Hometown," which garnered significant attention at the festival, winning first prize overall and prompting the organizers to send them on tour. Mr. Cao Xuan Thuong himself received the Outstanding Author award. He is currently being considered for the title of Folk Artisan.

Composing and rehearsing for folk song clubs in communes and schools seems to occupy all of his time. He confided, "If it were for the remuneration, I probably wouldn't do it, because the author's royalties aren't worth much." Many jokingly call Mr. Thuong the "folk song composer," and he cherishes that title, as it is the result of his tireless work and the culmination of his life's dreams. He advised the District Cultural Center to establish folk song clubs at the grassroots level. He directly guided them on how to operate, organized rehearsals, and composed new folk songs characteristic of the locality for these clubs. Thanks to his efforts, Dien Chau has now established eight folk song clubs specializing in the Ví and Dặm styles.

The village communal house of Phượng Lịch – the place where he used to listen to his father sing folk songs – is also where he diligently practices today. It's a legacy he's nurtured for many years, finally able to fulfill. The songs transport us back to the gentle image of the Bùng River in his hometown on a moonlit night, to the image of the village girls of Phượng Lịch (in particular) and the villages of Nghệ An (in general) bustling with the sound of weaving looms. And subtly present within this scene are the modern-day country girls – fresh, innocent, yet deeply affectionate. He confided: "I hope that folk singing is not just a trend, but an indispensable spiritual nourishment for working people. Let's start by instilling a love for folk songs in children, so that when they grow up, they will have the soul of the nation. I propose to the Department of Education to create opportunities for me to give talks about folk songs, <i>ca trù</i> (traditional Vietnamese singing), and local literature at schools. Passing on the passion for folk songs to the younger generation is the foundation for the long-term survival and development of folk music."

Approaching the age of "rarely seen before," Mr. Thuong must surely feel somewhat at peace knowing that he has contributed to reviving the rich tradition of Nghe An folk songs that flows through the hearts of every citizen...

Text and photos:Mai Giang

(Dien Chau Radio Station)