The primary influence on traditional Vietnamese music is the music of China and to a lesser degree the Indochinese kingdom of Champa (circa 10th century to 19th century). However, this 1971 recording illustrates Vietnam’s own special styles, which include the hát ả đào or sung poetry of the North and the cải lương or theatre music of the South. Themes of freedom, independence, and personal and spiritual exploration are captured in these art forms dating back 500 years. The liner notes include musical notation and explain the content and history of each selection.

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