Anniversary of musician's death honoured in song

Melodious memories: A 14-year-old girl, the youngest member of Hoi Quan Hoi Ngo, sings one of Son's popular song about a 16-year-old girl's love, Moi Hong Dao (Cherry Lips), at a concert celebrating his birthday in Binh Quoi Tourist Park. — VNS Photo Van Dat

More than 1,500 free tickets have been distributed to the concert that will mark the ninth death anniversary of the musician.

The concert was organised by Son's younger sister Trinh Vinh Trinh, head of Binh Quoi Tourist Park, Cao Lap and poet Do Trung Quan.

The theme this year was taken from a painting given to Son by Nguyen Trung, titled Doa Hoa Vo Thuong, featuring Son and a lotus.

Participating singers include Hong Nhung, Cam Van, Quang Dung, Duc Tuan and Kasim Hoang Vu, accompanied by jazz saxophonist Tran Manh Tuan.

Besides performance of professional singers, audiences will also see members of the village's Hoi Quan Hoi Ngo (Meeting Club) who usually sing every Sunday night.

Included will be Thuy Tien, businessman Hoang Hai, the Nguyet Ca Group and others. The club was established by the late composer 10 years ago.

Trinh, who rarely sings in front of the public, is considered to be one of the best singers performing Son's music.

She said she would possibly sing at the concert if she is in good health.

Yesterday, Son's private house at 47C Pham Ngoc Thach Street in District 3, opened its doors for the public, welcoming guests and fans who lit incense in honour of the musician.

Several music programmes are also being held around the city on the anniversary.

American teacher Richard Fuller, who is known for singing Trinh Cong Son's songs in both English and Vietnamese, will perform at on the ATB Bar stage with guitarist The Vinh.

Fans of Son's music will also hear his immortal songs at Phuong Nam Book Cafe at 3 Nguyen Oanh Street at 8pm tomorrow. Audiences will be invited to sing their favourite songs. — VNS