Man behind the music: A photo of composer Trinh Cong Son taken by Duong Minh Long.

HA NOI (VNS) — The music of composer Trinh Cong Son is to be depicted in the "language" of fine art at an exhibition entitled Khoi Troi Menh Mong (Immense Sky Smoke), which introduces 40 paintings inspired by his music.

Named after one of the most famous songs composed by Son, the exhibition marks the 77th birth anniversary and 15th death anniversary of the musician (28/2/1939 – 1/4/2001).

The paintings are in various mediums including oil, acrylic and pastel, all with aim to honour the great musician whose love songs have won the hearts of many fans for generations.

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The artists include poet Nguyen Quang Thieu, painter Doan Hoang Lam, and painter Lam Duc Manh.

Photographers Nguyen Huu Bao and Duong Minh Long will also display photos of the musician Son.

Lady in blue: A painting by Lam Duc Manh inspired from music by Trinh Cong Son.

"The language in Son's songs is rich in metaphor, images and comparison," said painter Le Thiet Cuong.

"The landscapes, birds, flowers, mountains and rivers in his lyrics are soulful and bear human emotions. They provide endless inspiration for painters to create from."

Son was born in the central city of Hue in 1939, and became popular in 1957 with his very first song, Uot Mi (Crying Eyes).

He went on to become southern Viet Nam's most famous songwriter and author of several anti-war collections. They were extremely popular with students and other youth in what was then Sai Gon during the American War in the 1960s and 70s.

After liberation in 1975, Son continued to compose, enjoying great success with both his lyrics and melodies. Beside songs about love and romance, he was also known country-wide for his songs in praise of post-war life.

The exhibition will run in Ha Noi until March 25 at Hang Da Galleria, 1 Hang Da Street. The exhibition will then move to Hoi An City where it can be viewed on April 1-10 at Xu Dang Trong, 9 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street. — VNS