HÀ NỘI — A music contest seeking new voices and fresh interpretations of the late musician Trịnh Công Sơn’s songs is open to all lovers of his music, inviting them to showcase their talent and creativity.

Organised by the Viet Legacy Development project with the support of Trịnh Công Sơn’s family, the Hát Cùng Trịnh (Viet Legacy Awards 2027) contest aims to bring his music closer to younger generations while expanding the ways in which his timeless compositions are performed and appreciated.

Contestants, including Trịnh’s music enthusiasts, young talents and Vietnamese people at home and abroad aged 16 and above, can perform as soloists, duets or groups, with instrumental accompaniment, bands or other creative formats.

Musical approaches such as jazz, soul, electronic and contemporary arrangements are also encouraged, provided they respect the original values of the compositions.

Singer Trịnh Vĩnh Trinh, younger sister of Trịnh Công Sơn, has voiced her support for young artists bringing fresh interpretations to his music. She said it was important to welcome the creativity of the next generation so that her brother’s songs could continue to reach wider audiences.

Speaking to the press, she expressed her family’s appreciation for generations of artists who have helped bring Trịnh Công Sơn’s music to the public over the decades, including Khánh Ly, Bảo Yến, Cẩm Vân, and Tùng Dương, as well as younger singers such as Mỹ Tâm, Lân Nhã and Uyên Linh.

Trinh also highlighted singer Hà Lê, who has offered fresh interpretations of her brother’s compositions, and Trần Thế Thể Thiên, whose distinctive rendition of Diễm Xưa (Diễm, My Cherished Old Flame) has brought another perspective to the song.

She said each artist had contributed their own love for her brother’s music, whether through traditional or contemporary interpretations.

“We should welcome young people so that the music of my brother Sơn, as well as the works of many other composers, can be passed down and live on forever among music lovers,” Trinh said.

Artist Quang Thành, creative director of the contest, said Sơn’s music needed to remain part of young people’s lives. The organisers hoped not only to discover outstanding vocal talent but also to find performers capable of conveying their personal stories, experiences and emotions through each song.

The contest will take place in three rounds. The first, running from November 15 to December 31, 2026, will accept online video submissions and select 30 contestants. The second round, from January 1 to February 28, 2027, will narrow the field to 10 finalists for the grand gala on April 4, 2027, in HCM City.

The preliminary judging panel comprises screenwriter Nguyễn Thị Minh Ngọc, artist Quang Thành and musician Dương Trường Giang.

The final gala is expected to feature renowned singer Khánh Ly, musician Trần Tiến and singer Trịnh Vĩnh Trinh as artistic advisers.

Trịnh Công Sơn (1939–2001) was a renowned Vietnamese musician, composer and songwriter, often regarded as one of the most significant figures in Vietnamese music.

Throughout his life, Sơn dedicated himself to music. He lived solely for music, leaving behind over 600 songs. His music and poetry intertwined beautifully, creating works that have captivated millions of hearts across generations.

The lyrics in Sơn's works are always poetic and philosophical, with deep, poignant music that resonates with listeners. His songs have an endless appeal in the hearts of music lovers. Annual tribute concerts are always attended enthusiastically by large audiences.

He has become a legend in the Vietnamese music scene, part of the memory of many generations. Not only beloved domestically, Sơn also has wide international influence. His music has made a significant impact in countries like Japan and France. He was also the first Vietnamese musician to release an album that sold over two million copies. — VNS