Ca Tru, also known as Hat A Dao, features a female singer who is accompanied by a small group of musicians. It has been popular for more than 500 years.It is a complex form of poetry found in the north of Vietnam using lyrics written in traditional Vietnamese verse. Originally, it was a form of entertainment for wealthy people and was even performed for royalty.
In recent years, in addition to the efforts undertaken by Ca Tru clubs, local authorities all over Hanoi have paid special attention to the preservation of the art form, which is in danger of being forgotten and disappearing from cultural life.
Several districts ran campaigns to raise the public’s awareness of the cultural value of Ca Tru and to encourage them to join the preservation efforts. Furthermore, authorities mobilised the necessary resources to fund their efforts.
In a bid to safeguard this unique genre of songs, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Protection in October 2009, historical documents on Ca Tru were collected, books were published, and the teaching of Ca Tru was increased.
The municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism organised Ca Tru festivals to promote an exchange between clubs. Several historical sites were upgraded to provide space to perform Ca Tru.
According to Chu Chi Cang, director of Hoai Duc district’s Ngai Cau Ca Tru singing club, cultural management agencies should develop measures and plans to help support the activities of clubs in Hanoi and other localities throughout the country.
Vice Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Truong Minh Tien said his agency considered the conservation of Ca Tru singing a priority, adding that the department would introduce Ca Tru at tourism sites and festivals to popularise the traditional art form.
