HCM City - The music community is mourning the loss of talented musician Tôn Thất Lập, who passed away at the age of 81 in Hồ Chí Minh City on the morning of July 26.

Musician Tôn Thất Lập passed away at the age of 81, leaving a void in the world of music. (Photo: Thanh Niên)

The news was confirmed by a representative from the Ho Chi Minh City Music Association. The composer of the song “Sing for My People” breathed his last breath at Military Hospital 175 after undergoing a period of treatment. Tôn Thất Lập was a prominent figure in the music industry and was widely known for his contributions to the movement “Sing for my compatriots” (Hát cho đồng bào tôi).

Born on February 25, 1942, in Huế, Tôn Thất Lập dedicated his life to music, composing songs that resonated with the struggles and aspirations of the people. Some of his notable works included  “Sing for My People” (Hát cho dân tôi nghe) and the choir piece “Rice Rings all over the Plain” (Lúa reo trên khắp đồng bằng).

Tôn Thất Lập’s talent was recognised early on, and he pursued formal training in composing at the Hanoi Conservatory of Music. In 1974, he moved to France and had his works published by the Association of Students Composing Abroad. His collection, "Birds from the Red Fire" (Những cánh chim từ vùng lửa đỏ), received critical acclaim.

Throughout his career, Tôn Thất Lập held esteemed positions, such as vice president of the Ho Chi Minh City Music Association and vice president of the Vietnam Musicians Association. He also served as the editor-in-chief of Vietnam Music Magazine.

The late musician was known for his ability to craft not only revolutionary and socially relevant songs but also love songs. Even during peacetime, he continued to create beautiful melodies, including "Spring Love Song" (Tình ca mùa xuân), "Youth Love Song" (Tình ca tuổi trẻ), and "Whispering Rain" (Mưa thì thầm). For Tôn Thất Lập, creativity was a means of self-liberation, and he always sought to explore new avenues in his work.

Tôn Thất Lập’s contributions were not limited to composing songs; he also dabbled in dance music and the film industry. His talent was honoured with the 2nd State Prize for Literature and Art in 2007.

In remembrance of the late musician, the Ho Chi Minh City Music Association, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Sports, has organised a program titled "Tôn Thất Lập - Singing Forever" at the HCMC Opera House on August 5, 2023.

The funeral ceremony to pay respects to the late musician will be held from 9am on July 28 to 29 at the Southern National Funeral Home in HCM City. The memorial ceremony will take place at 6am on July 30, followed by his burial at a cemetery in the city. VNS