The two main concerts of the Da Nang International Guitar Festival took place on the evenings of December 27 and 28, 2024, at DTU, delivering a full and sublime musical experience with captivating melodies imbued with the essence of classical guitar artistry.
Although this was the first time the Da Nang International Guitar Festival was held, it was brought to life by Danang Guitar (founded by artist Phan Xuan Tri). The event created an extraordinary musical space, showcasing the passionate journey of artists determined to bring classical guitar closer to audiences. In addition to the main concerts, other activities such as Master Classes and the "Guitar Crafting" workshop inspired the hearts of Vietnamese classical guitar enthusiasts.
Iconic pieces leaving a lasting impression on the audience
The festival, long envisioned, became a spectacular event filled with boundless inspiration from artists who have loved classical guitar for years. The opening act featured the vibrant piece El Gato Montes ("The Wildcat"), performed with youthful energy by the Dream Oasis Guitar Ensemble. This pasodoble, extracted from the three-act opera by Spanish composer Manuel Panella, often opens ballroom dances. The young performers’ spirited and joyful playing immediately captivated the audience.
Dream Oasis Guitar Ensemble opens with youthful rhythm and vibrant sound
Following this, the audience was immersed in Tango en Skai, performed by Thai artist Padet Netpakdee. This is one of the most renowned tango pieces by French guitarist and composer Roland Dyens. Vietnamese-Australian artist Le Hoang Minh contributed to the evening with the neoclassical work Suite Cavatina (a five-movement composition) by the talented Polish composer Alexandre Tansman. Le Hoang Minh’s exceptional performance showcased his ability to deliver fresh emotions through his masterful interpretations.
Australian-Vietnamese artist Le Hoang Minh (left) and artist Padet Netpakdee (Thailand)
The festival featured a wide range of performances across different musical styles and eras, from Baroque and Romantic to Neoclassical, Modern, and Latin-American music. Audiences were transported into a musical world through the exceptional talents of artists such as Campbell Diamond (Austria), Padet Netpakdee (Thailand), Le Hoang Minh (Vietnamese-Australian), Phan Xuan Tri, Nguyen Ngoc San, and the Dream Oasis Guitar Ensemble.
Space seems to stop with the work "Chiquilín de Bachín" by artist Phan Xuan Tri"
Although many audience members had attended guitar concerts over the years, the Da Nang International Guitar Festival surprised them with its scale and quality. The event introduced fresh approaches in both format and content, with careful preparation of sound and lighting in an internationally standard venue at Duy Tan University’s Quang Trung Auditorium.
Exploring the roots of classical guitar
"Classical guitar music is incredibly relaxing and accessible, not overly academic or esoteric. However, to bring audiences closer to classical guitar, it’s essential to create connections, establish habits, and provide opportunities for engagement," artist Phan Xuan Tri passionately shared.
Many young people have become interested in classical guitar, not only as listeners but also as learners eager to master the instrument. Thai artist Padet Netpakdee remarked, "Vietnamese youth play very well, with professional sound, and their proficiency in English makes learning much easier."
Craftsman Kim Sang Gil and Artist Phan Xuan Tri
At the festival, attendees were not only treated to classical masterpieces but also participated in Master Classes and workshops like "Guitar Crafting," exploring the origins of classical guitar. Craftsman Kim Sang Gil shared insights into selecting materials, such as cedar or spruce for the soundboard and various woods for the sides and back, emphasizing how these choices influence tonal quality. He also explained the internal bracing systems that affect sound production, comparing handcrafted guitars to mass-produced ones.
The festival’s success
The festival’s success was the culmination of more than a decade of dedication by artist Phan Xuan Tri. He shared, "While Da Nang has many developing art forms, classical guitar and chamber music remain relatively niche. My hope is to make these art forms more accessible, creating a cultural highlight for the city with a series of ongoing events."
DTU was chosen as the venue for the International Guitar Festival
Choosing DTU as the venue marked a milestone for classical guitar. "The university’s leadership has been incredibly supportive, and the facilities are ideal for hosting high-quality concerts. Their dedication to nurturing the younger generation’s love for classical guitar is truly inspiring," Phan Xuan Tri added.
As the festival was free to attend, Phan Xuan Tri emphasized the need for future support from organizations to continue bringing meaningful contributions to the community.
(Media Center)