UNESCO nomination for Xoan singing to be submitted before March 31
The nomination paper for Xoan singing to be recognised as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity must be submitted to UNESCO before March 31.
Xoan singing originates in northern Phu Tho province and is performed in communal halls during spring festivals. For this reason, it is also called “hat cua dinh” (singing in front of the communal house).
It is a form of entertainment, but it also honours the Hung kings, the founders of the nation, and village guardian spirits; appeals for good health, weather and harvests; and depicts daily life in rural areas.
The singing is accompanied by dancing and musical instruments, such as clappers and drums.
Four Xoan guilds still exist: An Thai, Phu Duc, Kim Doi and Thet in Kim Duc and Phuong Lau communes of Phu Tho province.