The festival is based on a famous cultural event happening 50 years ago, said Do Hong Quan, Chairman of the Vietnam Composers’ Association, at a press conference in Hanoi on August 27.

On September 3, 1960, President Ho Chi Minh conducted an orchestra to sing “The song of unity” in a gala night in Hanoi to welcome the success of the third national congress of the Vietnam Workers’ Party (now the Communist Party of Vietnam).

The festival will honour the country’s music, encourage artists, and inspire young people, said Quan.   

Vietnam Music Day will be observed in 15 cities and provinces nationwide from September 2-5 with various activities, including symphony performances, street music, folk songs and pop.