PATRIOTIC ART - A music and dance performance praising President Hồ Chí Minh at the art show “Con Đường Thế Kỷ Người Đi” (President Hồ Chí Minh’s Journey for National Salvation) held in HCM City early this month. VNA/VNS Photo by Thu Hương

HCM CITY – Vietnamese songwriters in Việt Nam and abroad are encouraged to participate in a songwriting contest to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025).

The contest, entitled “Bài Ca Thống Nhất” (Songs of Reunification), is co-organised by the Việt Nam Composers’ Association (VCA) and the HCM City Television (HTV).

The songs must highlight the historical values of the national liberation fight and the building and development of the country under the Party’s leadership over the past 50 years.

The works should also feature notable achievements in the economy, defence and security, culture, and society of 54 ethnic minority groups.

Nguyễn Đức Trịnh, chairman of VCA, said, “The songwriting contest offers an opportunity for songwriters to express their love for the homeland. We expect musicians, not only professional but also amateur, can support the contest and introduce new significant songs to celebrate the 50th anniversary of national reunification.”

Each contestant can send only one entry. The entries can be sent to email congtachoivien@gmail.com or to the association’s office at 51 Trần Hưng Đạo Street in Hoàn Kiếm District in Hà Nội by January 6, 2025.

The qualification round will be held in early 2025.

All qualified entries will be uploaded on the association’s social media platforms including YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.

The winners will be announced by April 2025.

The winner will receive a cash prize of VNĐ80 million (US$3,140), while two runners-up will get VNĐ50 million each.

The organisers will also give four third prizes of VNĐ30 million each, and eight consolation prizes of VNĐ10 million each. – VNS