Music of remembrance honours Việt Nam's fallen heroes

July 22, 2026 - 08:35
A special concert in Hà Nội will commemorate the 79th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs' Day, bringing together veteran and younger performers in a tribute that celebrates sacrifice, patriotism and the enduring power of music to connect generations.
Vành Hoa Lửa (Ring of Fire) brings together many of Việt Nam's most beloved singers in a musical tribute marking the 79th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs' Day. — Photo courtesy of the organisers

HÀ NỘI — A special music programme titled Vành Hoa Lửa (Ring of Fire) will take audiences on an emotional journey through Việt Nam's wartime memories, while paying tribute to the nation's fallen heroes on the 79th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs' Day (July 27).

Organised by the Việt Nam Contemporary Arts Theatre under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the concert will be held on July 26 at Việt Cultural Space, 79 Hàng Trống Street in central Hà Nội.

Directed by People's Artist Trần Bình, with artistic direction by theatre director and Meritorious Artist Quỳnh Trang, the programme is designed as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to war martyrs, wounded and sick veterans, and all those who made great sacrifices for the country's independence and freedom.

Structured in two chapters, the concert traces the nation's wartime journey through music and storytelling.

The opening chapter, Ra Trận (To the Front), recreates the spirit of the years when generations of young Vietnamese left behind classrooms and family life to answer the call of the nation. A selection of well-known revolutionary songs will evoke memories of courage, idealism and unwavering patriotism.

Tri Ân (Gratitude), the second chapter, shifts to a more reflective tone. It honours the sacrifices of fallen soldiers through moving melodies and stories that celebrate resilience, remembrance and peace.

According to Trang, the programme was created with profound respect for those who devoted their lives to the country.

"Through music, poetry and performance, we hope to revive the sacred memories of those extraordinary years and help audiences, especially younger generations, better appreciate the value of the peace we enjoy today," she said.

The concert will feature an impressive line-up of artists spanning different generations, including People's Artist Quang Thọ, Meritorious Artist Việt Hoàn, renowned singer Mỹ Linh and other singers, including Viết Danh, Duyên Quỳnh, Hữu Đức, Tống Linh and Trường Phúc, accompanied by the Contemporary Dance Troupe and Mây Dance Company.

People's Artist Quang Thọ will perform at the Vành Hoa Lửa (Ring of Fire) concert in Hà Nội. — Photo bvhttdl.gov.vn

For Quang Thọ, performing classics such as Lá Đỏ (Red Leaves) and Đất Nước (The Country) carries deep personal meaning.

"Every time I sing these songs, I return to cherished memories while reaffirming my belief that the values preserved through the sacrifices of previous generations will continue to be treasured and carried forward," he said.

Duyên Quỳnh, who will perform Khúc Tráng Ca Đại Ngàn (Epic of the Great Forest), Mẹ Vẫn Ngóng Trông (Mother Still Waits) and Những Anh Hùng Vô Danh (The Unsung Heroes), said each song represents a message of gratitude.

"I hope every lyric becomes a tribute to the past, bringing stories of love for the homeland and immortal sacrifice closer to today's audiences," she said.

Beyond marking an important national anniversary, Vành Hoa Lửa seeks to strengthen the tradition of remembering those who came before, linking historical memory with contemporary life through the universal language of music.

The programme also reflects ongoing efforts to promote culture and the arts as a driving force for preserving national identity, inspiring creativity and fostering patriotism. 

By bringing historical memory into contemporary performance, the concert demonstrates how cultural values can be passed on to younger generations while contributing to the nation's cultural development. — VNS

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