Olk singing in Quang Binh named intangible cultural heritage

Hò khoan's lyrics and melodies were invented by workers based on the activities of their daily routine. The recognition of Hò khoan Lệ Thuỷ is a chance for Quảng Bình's provincial authorities to promote the uniqueness of its culture to people across Vietnam.

This will also enhance the youth's awareness of the importance of preserving local intangible cultural heritages in the locality.

A fishing net pulling “ho” performance at the ceremony recognising Le Thuy singing as a national intangible cultural heritage, on the evening of August 31. 

“Ho khoan” (meaning to row) Le Thuy is a type of folk singing, born during the labour of local people in the Le Thuy lowland area. This form of singing is dominated by nine main rhythmic elements.

The labouring song is characterised both by its antiphonal nature, with alternating groups of female and male singers issuing musical challenges, and responses containing topics of love and sentimentality.

The singing fluctuates across all environments suitable for the role of conveying the minds and spirit of the people in order to entertain and eliminate tiredness during work and to speed up productivity.

In recognition of the outstanding values and efforts to preserve and promote “ho khoan” Le Thuy, on May 8, 2017, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism issued a decision recognising the labouring songs of Le Thuy as a national intangible cultural heritage. This is the first intangible cultural heritage of Quang Binh.