THE HANOI TIMES — Under the dazzling chandeliers of Ho Guom Theatre, “Aspiration for Spring” emerged as a masterful cultural showcase. Through the universal language of classical music, the event embodied themes of confidence, continuity, and renewal, resonating deeply at a pivotal moment for the nation.
The Spring Aspirations concert seamlessly blended tradition and modernity, leaving an indelible mark on attendees. Photo: VCMA
Held on the evening of January 17th, the concert coincided with a significant national transition, infusing the program with a profound sense of reflection and anticipation.
This landmark event marked the first-ever collaboration between two premier orchestras, joined by world-renowned pianists Eric Lu and Nguyen Viet Trung. Their shared stage created a rare artistic dialogue, captivating audiences with its uniqueness.
The distinguished audience included senior Party and State officials, ambassadors, chargés d’affaires, heads of international organizations in Vietnam, representatives from central and Hanoi-based agencies, and a diverse array of music enthusiasts.
Dr. Nguyen Van Than, Chairman of the Vietnam Classical Music Association and a member of the 14th and 15th National Assembly, emphasized the concert’s role in affirming culture and the arts as an eternal wellspring of spiritual inspiration.
Taking place on the eve of the Party Congress, the program powerfully demonstrated how music can convey ideals and amplify the Party’s vision through timeless cultural expressions.
Dr. Nguyen Van Than, President of the Vietnam Classical Music Association, inaugurates the evening of classical music.
The program commenced with composer Trong Bang’s Overture “Welcome,” performed by Meritorious Artist Le Giang and the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra under conductor Honna Tetsuji. This piece evocatively captured aspirations for peace and prosperity.
Pianist Nguyen Viet Trung then joined the orchestra for Frédéric Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21, delivering a performance that masterfully revealed the emotional depth and lyricism of the Romantic era.
American pianist Eric Lu enthralled the audience with an unforgettable evening performance.
American pianist Eric Lu followed with Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3, accompanied by the Sun Symphony Orchestra under conductor Olivier Ochanine. His nuanced, expressive interpretation guided the audience through a dynamic musical journey, seamlessly blending intimacy with dramatic intensity.
The evening culminated with “Returning to the Homeland” by celebrated Vietnamese composer Nguyen Van Thuong. Performed by Nguyen Viet Trung, cellist Tran Hong Nhung, flutist Chen Yen Chi, and the Sun Symphony Orchestra under Olivier Ochanine’s direction, this piece served as a poignant finale.
“Aspiration for Spring” was a collaborative effort by the Vietnam Classical Music Association and the Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, with invaluable support from Ho Guom Theatre, the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra, the Sun Symphony Orchestra, and the Vietnam National Academy of Music.
