Composer Pham Tuyen at age 96: The strength to live with lung disease.
Despite requiring daily mechanical ventilation due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, composer Pham Tuyen remains lucid at an advanced age and surprises his family as his gray hair has begun to turn black again.
Composer Pham Tuyen, author of the timeless song "As if Uncle Ho were present on the day of great victory," is turning 96 with an optimistic spirit despite facing serious health problems. His family confirms that he has been living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for many years, causing one lung to become stiff and lose its function.
Health condition and special care
Sharing about her father's health, journalist Pham Hong Tuyen said that musician Pham Tuyen currently relies on respiratory support equipment such as oxygen ventilators and nebulizers daily. During periods of cold weather, he needs special care to protect his remaining lungs. Despite his declining health and the need for assistance with mobility, the veteran musician maintains an astonishing level of mental clarity.
Besides lung disease, the musician also suffers from several underlying health conditions associated with old age, leading to declining eyesight and a less clear voice. However, he remains proactive in his personal life and regularly follows the news through television and daily newspapers to stay updated on social issues. His family monitors all aspects of his life 24/7 to respond promptly to any unusual developments.
The miraculous revival of hair and a rare longevity.
One detail that surprised his family and those around him was that recently, musician Pham Tuyen's white hair had suddenly started to turn black again. Journalist Pham Hong Tuyen shared that even his usual barber was surprised by this change. The family believes that recent moments of joy have contributed to these positive changes in his health.
In early January 2026, a heartwarming musical program titled "Spring Wishes" was held to celebrate his 96th birthday. Born on January 12, 1930, composer Pham Tuyen has lived through nearly a century with immense contributions to the national music scene. Although initially hesitant about his health and unable to attend a large celebration, he still appeared to express his gratitude for the affection shown to him.
Simple life in an old apartment building.
Despite his fame, composer Pham Tuyen maintains a simple lifestyle in his small, old apartment of less than 70 square meters on Van Bao Street in Hanoi. This is where he lived for 33 years and holds many memories with his late wife, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuyet. He chose to keep the apartment's layout unchanged as a way to remember his life partner, who passed away in 2009.
Composer Pham Tuyen is honored as "a historian through music" with a vast legacy of hundreds of revolutionary and children's songs. For his tireless contributions, he was awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize for Literature and Arts in 2012. At the age of 96, he remains a symbol of optimism and a passionate love of life.
