Nghe Tinh, a land in the Central region that has endured many harsh natural conditions, is the birthplace of Vi and Giam songs, a symbol of sophistication and depth in folk culture. Vi and Giam folk songs are not only melodies and lyrics but also the voice of the people of Nghe An, reflecting the aspirations, feelings and philosophies of life imbued with humanistic values.
Vi and Giam melodies originate from daily working life, where people sing in the rhythm of a hard but hopeful life. The cultural space of Vi and Giam spreads throughout Nghe An and Ha Tinh, from the vast fields, peaceful riverbanks to the weaving looms of women and mothers behind the bamboo fences of the village. The songs sung while lulling children to sleep, while rowing boats or on the fields have become an indispensable part of the spiritual life of the people here, reflecting both the simplicity and the hidden depth and sophistication of Nghe An language - a language with a strong dialect and rich in expression.
Vi and Giam are a harmonious combination of simple lyrics, everyday language and flexible performance. Vi singing is often composed in the form of six-eight or variant six-eight, while Giam singing is based on the clear rhythm of five-word poetry. The intersection between these two genres creates lively dialogues, love scenes imbued with rustic character but still imbued with the beauty of language. Lyrics such as “When Hong Linh stone wears out, Hoanh Son clouds cover, my heart still remembers you” or “Even though the sea is dry, my heart is iron with red heart” have become symbols of the faithful love and steadfastness of the people of Nghe An.
A unique feature of Vi and Giam is the ability to express emotions through rich rhetorical devices. Subtle metaphors such as “The wild phoenix is not smart, it does not stop on Tam Thai mountain but on May grass hill” or exaggerated expressions such as “Even if someone gouges out my eyes or cuts off my hands, I will still follow this path with you” demonstrate the unique creativity of folk artists. Along with that, the personification and wordplay in the lyrics have created a strong vitality for the songs, helping them not only survive but also develop through many generations.
The melody of Vi and Giam is an indispensable part of the appeal of this genre. The rhymes and breaks in the songs are cleverly arranged, creating harmony, easy to learn and remember. The rhythm is not fixed but changes flexibly according to the singer's mood, from sad melodies to cheerful, bustling rhythms. This is the point that makes Vi and Giam easily enter people's hearts, so that every time it sounds, the melody seems to remind them of their homeland, of the dear memories of their childhood.
Looking further, Nghe Tinh Vi and Giam are both performing arts and a treasure trove of valuable folk knowledge. The content of the songs truly reflects the working life, vividly recreating the customs, rituals, and habits of Nghe An. From everyday stories to profound philosophies of life, all are cleverly incorporated into the lyrics, becoming moral lessons, reminding people to cherish love, filial piety, and a life of kindness.
Nowadays, Vi and Giam folk songs hold great value in developing cultural tourism. Folk song performances and art clubs in the countryside have become places to preserve heritage and are highlights to attract tourists. The inclusion of Vi and Giam folk songs in tourism programs contributes to promoting the unique cultural values of Nghe An, while creating opportunities for local communities to improve their lives and raise awareness of cultural preservation.
With its unique artistic and humanistic values, Nghe Tinh Vi and Giam folk songs have been recognized by UNESCO as a representative intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This is not only a source of pride but also a great responsibility of the people of Nghe An in preserving and spreading the value of this heritage to future generations. Vi and Giam songs, whether simple or profound, are the voice of the people here, a living testament to the love of life and people through music.
Hoang Anh
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