Symphony music has long been a reflection of historical upheavals, portraying the human spirit in times of hardship and triumph. The Sun Symphony Orchestra’s (SSO) “From Struggle to Triumph” concert, conducted by Music Director/Conductor Olivier Ochanine, is composed of three works with different stories but all sharing the same theme: struggle and triumph.
Dien Bien Phu Poetry Symphony – Music of Memory and Victory
Opening with the Dien Bien Phu Poetry Symphony by musician Tran Manh Hung, the audience will be taken back to the important historical moment of the Vietnamese nation. The work not only recreates the heroic spirit of the Dien Bien Phu campaign but also deeply engraves the sacrifice and bravery of the soldiers on the battlefield.

The work moves through many contrasting sections, depicting the fierceness of the battle, the indomitable will of the Vietnamese soldiers and finally the glorious victory of the nation. The mighty trumpets of the brass band sound like a call to battle, the rapid drum beats simulate the chaos and frenzy of the battlefield. All of these will make the listener feel the grandeur of the Dien Bien Phu victory as well as demonstrate the determination of the Vietnamese army and people in the battle. Along with the dramatic melodies with trumpets and drums are slow, soulful passages evoking the great sacrifice of the fallen heroes. The climaxes of the work are praises to the loyalty and indomitable spirit of our nation.
Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 3 – A Journey of Rising from Challenges
The performance of Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 is the story of an individual who surpasses his own limits. That is Luong Khanh Nhi – a talented young artist from Vietnam, the first person to win a high prize at the prestigious Leeds International Piano Competition with her powerful playing and artistic sensitivity.

The harmony between artistic depth and a sense of intimacy is what makes Prokofiev's Concerto No. 3 so appealing. Although it requires virtuosity and boldness in harmony, the work still touches the listener with its emotional melodies and overflowing energy.
It is undeniable that the appearance of Luong Khanh Nhi on stage this time promises to be a special highlight of the music night. More than 40 years after People's Artist Dang Thai Son made Vietnam famous with the championship title at the Chopin International Piano Competition, Khanh Nhi continues to make her mark, affirming the talent of the young generation of Vietnamese artists on the international stage.
Shostakovich's Symphony No. 9 – Another Perspective on Victory
Written in 1945, when the world expected a grand symphony to celebrate victory in World War II, Shostakovich did the opposite – he composed a work with playful, light-hearted melodies, even witty and satirical at times. Shostakovich’s Ninth Symphony is characterized by sharp contrasts, unique arrangements, and layers of meaning hidden in every note. Today, the Ninth Symphony is celebrated not only for its brilliance and creativity, but also for its ability to challenge preconceptions and provoke reflection. The work’s compact yet expressive structure is an exciting and meaningful conclusion to a concert program.

Combining a proud Vietnamese poetic symphony, a personal piano concerto, and a Russian symphony with a sharp perspective, “From Struggle to Triumph” by the Sun Symphony Orchestra is a musical journey where every note is a story about the past, a reflection on humanity, and a promise for the future.
Audiences come not only to enjoy the music, but also to witness a generation of Vietnamese artists reaching out to the world, to feel the power of music in telling stories and touching the deepest emotions.
Comment (0)