Ê đê artists performed at an event last year in Hà Nội. The songwriting contest will find songs to be presented to promote ethnic culture. Photo vov.vn

HÀ NỘI — A songwriting contest about ethnic minorities has been launched by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to honour songs about national solidarity and ethnic culture.

The ministry, in collaboration with the Committee on Ethnic Minority Affairs (CEMA) and the Vietnam Musicians' Association, will honour songs for their content, feature the unique culture and art of the ethnic groups, reflect the modern life of the people, and criticise depraved customs.

The contest will help boost the development of society and culture, honour ethnic culture, encourage artists to create and meet the people’s demands for music.

The entries should be sent to the Ministry of Culture before September 30. The award ceremony will take place in November in Hà Nội. The winning songs will be performed at art shows in the localities.

There are two first prizes for winners in the north and the south, each worth VNĐ25 million (US$1,000) in cash. VNS