Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories offers audiences a rare opportunity to enjoy the captivating traditional art form of Xam singing from Vietnam’s Tonkin region. Drawing from tales and melodies dating back to the early 1900s, this performance celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage, blending musical virtuosity with the preservation of an important practice. Attendees can expect to be transported to the heart of Vietnamese traditions, as the show showcases the use of national instruments and creates a mesmerizing soundscape that reflects social shifts and trends. Those seeking a unique cultural experience won’t want to miss this captivating glimpse into the region’s past.
Overview of Xam Singing Show

The Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories immerses audiences in a unique traditional art form that has its roots in Vietnam’s Tonkin region.
This captivating performance revives the tales and melodies of the early 1900s, offering a window into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Xam singing reflects the social shifts and trends of its time while preserving the essence of traditional Vietnamese songs.
Hosted by the Vietnam Intangible Cultural Heritage Promotion Center, the show features the use of national musical instruments and invites guests to engage with the unique cultural experiences it offers, from coin casting to photo opportunities.
This immersive experience promises to transport attendees back in time and deepen their appreciation for Vietnam’s vibrant performing arts.
You can check availability for your dates here:Traditional Art Form in Vietnam

Xam singing embodies a rich and storied tradition in Vietnam’s cultural heritage, reflecting the unique artistic expressions that have endured through the country’s social and historical evolutions.
This traditional art form, performed by blind musicians, dates back to the early 20th century and has served as a powerful medium for sharing the stories, struggles, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people.
The flexible and creative nature of Xam music, with its distinct use of the two-chord fiddle and intricate vocal techniques, allows for the preservation and evolution of this important cultural practice.
Through performances that blend musical virtuosity with captivating narratives, Xam singing continues to captivate audiences and illuminate the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam’s cultural identity.
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Social Shifts and Trends Reflected

Xam singing’s adaptability has allowed it to reflect the social shifts and evolving trends of Vietnam over the decades, preserving its traditional roots while resonating with contemporary audiences. As a living art form, Xam has evolved to address changing societal conditions:
It has incorporated modern instruments and melodies to appeal to younger generations.
The narratives have adapted to touch on emerging social issues and cultural changes.
Xam performers have leveraged new platforms, such as social media, to share their art with wider audiences.
The revitalization efforts led by cultural institutions have helped Xam singing regain prominence and relevance in the modern Vietnamese cultural landscape.
Reviving Xam’s Tales From 1900S

While Xam singing has evolved to reflect contemporary shifts, the Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories aims to revive the art form’s captivating tales from the early 1900s.
Audiences can enjoy the unique musical and storytelling traditions that defined this practice during its heyday in Northern Vietnam.
The show transports attendees back in time, allowing them to experience the evocative performances of blind Xam singers as they weave spellbinding narratives through their two-chord fiddle playing and captivating vocals.
Vietnamese National Musical Instruments
The Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories features a variety of traditional Vietnamese musical instruments, allowing audiences to experience the distinctive sounds that have long been integral to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
This performance showcases four key instruments:
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The two-chord fiddle, or đàn nhị, with its haunting melodies and unique blend of five tones and six diacritics.
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The mono-chord zither, or đàn bầu, which produces a mesmerizing, sitar-like tone.
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The bamboo xylophone, or đàn t’rưng, with its delicate, resonant notes.
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The wooden lute, or đàn nguyệt, whose plucked strings add depth and texture to the ensemble.
Together, these instruments create a captivating soundscape that transports audiences to the heart of Vietnam’s musical traditions.
More Great Tours NearbyTraditional History of Vietnam Through Music
By weaving together captivating stories and soulful melodies, the Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories offers audiences a unique window into Vietnam’s rich cultural history and evolution.
Through the medium of traditional music and performance, this event sheds light on the social shifts and trends that have shaped the nation over the decades.
Audience members are invited to enjoy the evocative tales of the past, as the show’s talented artists skillfully bring to life the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam’s heritage.
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Pricing and Booking Information

Prices for the Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories start from VND 395 per person. Customers can reserve their tickets now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The event is hosted by the Vietnam Intangible Cultural Heritage Promotion Center and lasts for 2 hours, with options for English or Vietnamese languages.
The booking process offers several benefits:
- Flexible pricing starting from VND 395 per person
- Reserve now, pay later option
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event
- Convenient language options in English and Vietnamese
This unique cultural experience allows visitors to enjoy the traditional art of Xam singing and storytelling, reflecting the social shifts and trends of early 20th century Vietnam.
Unique Cultural Experiences Offered
Visitors to the Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories can enjoy a unique cultural experience, imagining the blind artisans’ singing and storytelling practice from the early 20th century. The flexible and creative music features variations in musical properties, allowing audiences to enjoy the five tones and six diacritics of the Vietnamese language through the two-chord fiddle. Engaging in cultural activities like coin casting and photo opportunities further enriches the experience, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
| Unique Experiences | Description |
|---|---|
| Blind Artisan’s Storytelling | Imagine the singing and storytelling practice of 20th century blind artists |
| Flexible Music Variations | Enjoy the creative music with changes in musical properties |
| Vietnamese Language Tones | Experience the five tones and six diacritics through the two-chord fiddle |
| Coin Casting | Participate in the traditional cultural activity of coin casting |
| Photo Opportunities | Capture memorable moments of the unique cultural performance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography and Videography Allowed During the Performance?
Yes, photography and videography are allowed during the performance. Guests are encouraged to capture the unique cultural experience and engage with the artists through photo opportunities provided throughout the event.
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for Booking?
There is no minimum group size required to book the Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories experience. Individuals can reserve their spot and enjoy the unique cultural performance hosted by VICH.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated?
The event does not provide any specific dietary accommodations. However, the organizers are happy to work with guests who have special dietary needs or restrictions. Guests should contact the host in advance to discuss any such requirements.
Can the Performance Be Customized for Private Events?
The performance can be customized for private events. The Xam Singing Show’s organizers are flexible and can adapt the program to meet the specific needs and preferences of private groups or organizations.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Attending the Xam Singing Show?
There are no age restrictions for attending the Xam singing show. People of all ages can enjoy this unique Vietnamese cultural experience and learn about the traditional art form through the performance and storytelling.
Recap
The Xam Singing Show – Tonkin Stories offers a captivating exploration of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Blending musical virtuosity with the preservation of this centuries-old tradition, the performance transports audiences to the heart of Vietnamese history.
The performance showcases national instruments and timeless melodies that reflect the country’s evolving social landscape. This unique cultural experience provides an immersive glimpse into the enduring power of Xam singing, a treasured art form that continues to resonate with audiences today.
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