Ngo Chau Anh brings to Echo of Nomads 2026 a contemporary interpretation of Xẩm, combining the essence of Vietnamese folk music with a modern musical approach.

Xẩm singing is a traditional form of Vietnamese folk music that has been passed down through generations and is not associated with a single composer. Its distinctive sound is traditionally created with instruments such as the đàn nhị (two-string fiddle), phách (wooden clappers), small drums, sênh, and mõ.

The performance opens with Xẩm, gradually moving from a traditional sound into a more contemporary musical setting. It is then followed by the Vietnamese bamboo flute, which adds the distinctive timbre of one of Vietnam’s traditional instruments.

In the middle of the performance, Ngo Chau Anh introduces the familiar folk motif “ve vẻ vè ve…”, a common opening of Vietnamese vè, combined with stage movement and dance. Vè is a form of oral folk verse often used for storytelling and reflecting everyday life through simple, memorable rhythms.

After the vè and dance section, the performance returns to Xẩm, creating a complete structure that moves from tradition, through new layers of expression, and back to its core musical roots.

The performance was arranged and staged by musician Xuan Dieu, combining Xẩm, bamboo flute, Vietnamese folk verse, dance, and contemporary arrangement to create a presentation that is deeply rooted in Vietnamese cultural identity while also suited to an international stage.

Watch Ngo Chau Anh’s performance:
https://youtu.be/gLgAXm9KZjA?si=Gu_xGuxXNPxjbS9W

S Company is proud to accompany Ngo Chau Anh on this international journey, helping connect Vietnamese artists with global cultural and artistic platforms.

S Company — Connecting Talent, Culture and International Opportunities.