July and August of 2024 were truly memorable months, not just for Nguyễn Ngọc Minh Nhi, but also for the Hanoi Xẩm Art Club and the Hanoi UNESCO Traditional Music Club. Minh Nhi, born in 2017, with registration number KTA311, brought her Xẩm singing to the Yoshine Music Festival 2024. The final results are now well-known: a Gold Medal in the national final and a Silver Medal in the Northern regional final. This outcome far exceeded initial expectations, but looking back at her journey, everyone agrees it was fully deserved.
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When Xẩm “Found Its Way” Into A Young Heart
Minh Nhi’s connection with Xẩm singing began very early. At just 5 years old, she became a junior member of the Hanoi Xẩm Art Club and the Hanoi UNESCO Traditional Music Club. While many children her age were captivated by modern pop songs, Minh Nhi developed a special love for Xẩm singing. This art form, seemingly “old-fashioned,” captivated the little girl in a unique way. There’s no need for flowery words; just by watching her hum Xẩm melodies and diligently practice, one can see how profound her love for it is. She was meticulously guided by Meritorious Artist Xuân Hoạch and artisan Tạ Hạnh (the Club’s Chair) from her very first days. This shows us that traditional music still holds immense vitality and can “touch” even the youngest souls, provided there are people to plant the seeds and nurture them.
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From “Proud of Thăng Long Hanoi” To “Hanoi 36 Streets”: An Impressive Journey
Minh Nhi’s journey at Yoshine Music Festival 2024 comprised three challenging rounds, and she used her Xẩm singing to overcome them all:
- Round 1: Talent Search
She chose the song “Tự Hào Thăng Long Hà Nội” (Proud of Thăng Long Hanoi), performed in the Xẩm style. This was the debut of a 7-year-old girl, bringing her pride for Hanoi and for Xẩm art to the competition stage.
- Round 2: Northern Regional Final
Minh Nhi continued with Xam “Hà Nội 36 Phố Phường” (Hanoi 36 Streets) in the Xẩm style. The result: a Silver Medal. A very encouraging start, showing that her efforts were being rewarded.
- Round 3: National Final
Once again, it was “Hà Nội 36 Phố Phường,” but this time, she performed it with a different spirit, more confidence, and poise. And yes, the Gold Medal was awarded to our little Xẩm artist!
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Facing Challenges Alone And A Lesson In Independence
Perhaps the biggest challenge wasn’t in the musical notes, but in the moments she had to face the competition alone. There were times when little Minh Nhi, tiny as she was, had to wait by herself for her turn to perform, with no family members by her side. For a 7-year-old, that’s truly a difficult experience. Yet, she did it. She overcame her shyness and anxiety to complete her performance. These very moments of solitude helped her mature immensely, not just on stage but in life as well.
Minh Nhi’s participation and high achievement in a music competition with Xẩm singing is not just a personal joy for her or her family. It’s also a meaningful message: traditional art is not outdated. It can absolutely shine on large stages, attracting public attention, especially from the younger generation. This significantly contributes to preserving and spreading the beauty of Xẩm to more people, affirming the value of Vietnam’s precious cultural heritage.
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A Heartfelt Thank You To All Supporters
Minh Nhi’s success is the result of many people’s efforts. Our family extends its sincere gratitude to:
- Her paternal and maternal grandparents, who have always loved, cared for, and provided the best conditions for her.
- Meritorious Artist Xuân Hoạch and artisan Tạ Hạnh – dedicated teachers who tirelessly composed, rehearsed, and supported Minh Nhi throughout the competition, helping her deliver outstanding performances.
- Photographer Lý Giang, who promptly arranged his work to be present, supported, and sponsored beautiful photos, capturing Minh Nhi’s memorable moments.
- The members of the Hanoi Xẩm Art Club/Hanoi UNESCO Traditional Music Club, who consistently encouraged and supported her, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere.
- The teachers at Ngô Thì Nhậm Primary School, who showed care and created favorable conditions for her to excel in her studies while pursuing her passion.
- And also the Organizing Committee of the Yoshine Music Festival, who provided swift and timely support, creating a beneficial playground for young talents.
Nguyễn Ngọc Minh Nhi’s brilliant journey is a beautiful story of effort, passion, and love for traditional music. She has shown that, even at a young age, with perseverance and a heart that cherishes the beauty of our ancestors’ legacy, we can absolutely achieve wonders and contribute to preserving the precious cultural values of our nation.