Huong Thanh at Batha Museum

Huong Thanh's presentation of traditional Vietnamese music was a delightful way to pass the late afternoon in the garden at Batha Museum.  Vietnamese music is similar to Arabic music in that there exists a powerful relationship between the musical melody and the poetry of the lyrics.  The singer must use both to transmit a strong emotional experience to the listener.



The voice is used like an instrument, ‘to play' the words, and often complements the instrumental accompaniment.  This requires a wide vocal range and excellent control of the vocalizations.  Huong Thanh is clearly in possession of both.



Twice this week musicians have made mention of the effects of the heat on their handmade traditional instruments.  The more sensitive material reacts quickly to changes in the temperature and environment.  Even so, sitar-player Hong Nguyen managed to pull off some very skilled and impressive riffs with his solo.  



People gathered all around the stage afterward to have a closer look the various and unusual instruments - one of which resembled a long-handled, delicate meat mallet with a string along the handle to the base.  It was played with bow similar to that of a violin.  The group was friendly and talkative, willing to take their time, and they clearly love their craft.