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Then Singing (Hát Then) and the Tính Lute (Đàn Tính) Performance are among the most significant cultural and spiritual traditions of the Tày people in Bản Tha, Hà Giang. This unique folk art has been passed down through generations, blending melodic singing, poetic storytelling, and enchanting instrumental music to create an unforgettable cultural experience. More than just a form of entertainment, Then Singing holds deep spiritual and ritualistic meaning, often performed during festivals, ceremonies, and important village gatherings.
Then Singing is believed to have originated centuries ago as a form of prayer and communication with the deities, asking for good health, bountiful harvests, and peace for the community. It was traditionally performed by Then Masters (Ông Then or Bà Then), who were highly respected figures in the Tày community, acting as both spiritual leaders and cultural preservers.
In modern times, Then Singing has evolved into a celebration of Tày heritage, performed during events such as Lunar New Year, wedding ceremonies, and village festivals. The melodies, lyrics, and rhythms vary depending on the occasion, but all tell stories of life, love, nature, and spiritual beliefs.
The Then singing & Tính lute performance is not just a cultural show—it is an immersive journey into the soul of Vietnam’s northern ethnic communities. Originating from the Tay, Nung, and Thai peoples, this spiritual art form blends sacred chants, poetic storytelling, and mesmerizing music played on the traditional đàn tính (Tính lute). Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this performance offers travelers a rare chance to connect deeply with ancient beliefs, music, and regional identity.
In 2019, Then singing & Tính lute performance was officially inscribed by UNESCO as a global heritage art. This prestigious recognition highlights not only the beauty of the performance but also its historical and cultural depth. Attending a show means witnessing one of humanity’s most cherished traditional arts live, a privilege few travelers get to experience.
The Then singing & Tính lute performance is more than just music. It is a rich display of costume, rhythm, storytelling, and spirituality. As the Then master strums the Tính lute, chants of healing, prayer, and folklore unfold, bringing centuries of ancestral knowledge to life.
Then singing began as a spiritual ceremony among the Tay, Nung, and Thai ethnic groups. It served as a means of communicating with deities and ancestral spirits, often performed during events like harvest festivals, healing rituals, and village celebrations. The blend of poetry and song is believed to guide the soul and restore harmony to the community.
Integral to the Then singing & Tính lute performance, the Tính lute is a traditional string instrument with a resonant gourd body. Made from wood, gourd, and silk strings, it emits an ethereal sound believed to bridge the physical and spiritual worlds. Its melodies accompany each sung prayer, acting as a musical vessel for divine transmission.
The experience usually begins with a traditional cleansing ritual, purifying the space. This practice stems from spiritual customs to prepare for divine connection. You’ll see the performers in traditional attire—colorful robes, silver jewelry, and sacred talismans—each element holding symbolic meaning.
The first part of the Then singing & Tính lute performance is often a protective chant. This welcomes spirits and seeks blessings for the audience, a meaningful moment rooted in ancient beliefs.
The middle portion involves storytelling. These songs recount tales of love, struggle, nature, and wisdom. They’re performed with expressive body movements, facial expressions, and rhythmic lute music that elevates the emotional depth of each story.
In some traditional Then singing & Tính lute performances, the master enacts a healing ritual, using music and chant to symbolically restore health and emotional balance. This portion connects the audience with the spiritual energy of the ethnic communities.
Visitors are sometimes invited to join in simple chants or learn basic lute rhythms. These brief interactive moments deepen your appreciation for the skill and cultural richness behind the art.
A central figure in any Then singing & Tính lute performance, the Then master is both a spiritual guide and performer. Trained over years, sometimes decades, they learn sacred chants, rituals, and how to craft their own Tính lute. Their voices convey emotion and their presence radiates tradition.
The lutes used in each performance are often handcrafted by local artisans. These individuals use time-honored techniques passed down through generations. Observing or even visiting a workshop (if available on the tour) adds another layer of cultural appreciation to the experience.
The Then singing & Tính lute performance has become a symbol of cultural resilience. Despite modernization, ethnic communities in Vietnam’s northern regions continue to perform and teach this heritage, ensuring its legacy endures.
Historically, the Then singing ceremony served not only spiritual but also social purposes—uniting communities, marking life events, and passing on ethical values through oral traditions.
Tha Village is one of the most authentic places to witness this traditional art. Here, the performances are not just tourist attractions—they’re sacred practices still held in community homes and village temples.
In more formal settings, cultural centers or museums in provinces like Cao Bang also offer regularly scheduled Then singing & Tính lute performances, often with accompanying cultural lectures or exhibitions.
Treat the experience with reverence. Some parts of the Then singing & Tính lute performance are sacred and rooted in spiritual tradition. Follow the guide’s instructions and observe local etiquette.
Photography may be allowed in certain segments, but always ask first. Some moments are deeply spiritual and should be observed rather than documented.
Most performers are happy to share insights into their music, training, and community. Don’t hesitate to express curiosity—it enriches the experience for both parties.
Staying overnight in ethnic villages gives you deeper access to the communities that preserve the Then singing & Tính lute performance. It’s not unusual to hear informal versions during dinner or communal gatherings.
Some cultural experiences offer workshops where travelers can learn to play the Tính lute or understand the tonal structure of Then singing. These are wonderful ways to make the cultural memory last long after your trip.
Typical packages for a Then singing & Tính lute performance include:
The best times to attend are during traditional festivals (like Tet or Harvest) when performances are part of larger cultural celebrations. However, year-round showings are available in some areas by appointment.
Experiencing a Then singing & Tính lute performance is one of the most enriching cultural activities you can enjoy in northern Vietnam. It’s a celebration of spiritual tradition, musical artistry, and ethnic identity—all rolled into one unforgettable performance.
Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, music lover, or curious traveler, this is a heritage experience that will stay with you long after the last note fades.
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Whether you are a lover of traditional music, cultural heritage, or immersive experiences, witnessing a Then Singing & Tính Lute Performance in Bản Tha is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with the soul of Tày culture. 🌿🎶✨
Best Time: Evening or during local festivals and community gatherings ⏰ 8:00 PM – Arrival & Introduction to Then Singing & Tính Lute
⏰ 8:30 PM – Live Then Singing Performance
⏰ 9:00 PM – Tính Lute (Đàn Tính) Performance
⏰ 9:30 PM – Interactive Session
⏰ 10:00 PM – Cultural Reflection & Q&A
⏰ 10:30 PM – Closing & Return
The performance occurs in Bản Tha, Xã Phương Độ, a picturesque village in Hà Giang, within a community setting. It may be held in a village communal house, local home, or open gathering space depending on the event.
The performance occurs in Bản Tha, Xã Phương Độ, a picturesque village in Hà Giang, within a community setting. It may be held in a village communal house, local home, or open gathering space depending on the event.
The Tính Lute is a traditional stringed instrument used in Tày music. It is handmade with two or three strings and a gourd body. The instrument produces soft, resonant tones that complement the singing and are believed to connect the earthly and spiritual realms.
No! The performance is designed to be accessible to everyone, whether or not you have prior knowledge of Tày culture or music. The interactive elements allow visitors to engage in a hands-on way, and local guides will explain the cultural significance of the performance.
Yes! You will have the opportunity to sing along or even try playing the Tính Lute with the help of local performers. This is a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in the tradition and experience the music firsthand.
Yes! The performance is family-friendly and offers a chance for children to learn about cultural traditions and enjoy the soothing sounds of Tày music. They can even try playing the Tính Lute or join in the singing.
The performance typically lasts 2-3 hours, including a live performance, interactive sessions, and a Q&A with the artists.
Bring comfortable clothing and shoes for the event. You may also want to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the experience. Don't forget a hat or sunscreen if the performance is outdoors.
The performance is available throughout the year, but it is especially common during local festivals like the Lunar New Year (Tết) or harvest celebrations. Check with the local tour guide for specific dates or events.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos and videos to capture the beautiful moments of the performance. However, please be respectful and ask the performers if they prefer not to be photographed at certain times.
Yes, local guides will provide translations and explanations of the lyrics and stories sung during the performance to help you understand the cultural significance.
Yes, there is typically a fee for the performance, which helps support the local performers and their efforts to preserve this cultural tradition.
🛡️ Cultural Heritage Experience
Discover the soulful melodies of Tày traditions.
🎸 Live Tính Lute Music
Enjoy the soothing, rhythmic tunes of the Đàn Tính.
📖 Storytelling Through Song
Listen to poetic tales of life, nature, and spirituality.
🕯️ Sacred & Spiritual Connection
Experience the ritualistic and meditative essence of Then Singing.
🎭 Interactive Performance
Join in by singing, clapping, or trying the Tính Lute.
🌏 UNESCO-Recognized Art Form
Witness an intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam.
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