Nguyen Thi Thao Ni (known as Khai Yen), a DTU staff member, has won Fifth place in the Special Theme (Pop Song) - Youth (Senior) Class B category at the 2025 International Vocal Open Competition.
Currently, Khai Yen works at the DTU’s Silver Swallows Studio (SSS). She entered the competition in the preliminary round in Hong Kong, China, in late 2024. She then advanced to the final round, held on January 18, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The 12th International Vocal Open Competition is organized by the Hong Kong International Musicians Association and attracts young talent from 19 countries and regions. The competition aims to promote cultural and musical exchange while honoring outstanding individuals across a range of genres, including classical, semi-classical, musical theater, and pop-ballad. Contestants showcase their talents and participate in specialized master classes with leading experts to enhance their performance skills.
At the preliminary round in Hong Kong in November 2024, Khai Yen won second place. She then claimed 5th place in the final round for the Special Theme (Pop Song) - Youth (Senior) Class B category for young talents.
Khai Yen receives an award at the 12th International Vocal Open Competition. Photo: provided by Khai Yen
Pursuing a passion for music
Born and raised in Danang, Khai Yen showed an early passion for music. Although she did not grow up in a family of artists, the support from her family motivated her to pursue her dream. Since middle school, she has participated in competitions and won many awards, including a silver medal at the 2019 Lunar New Year Talent Arts Competition and a performance at the Danang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2023.
At the 12th International Vocal Open Competition 2025, Khai Yen impressed the judges with her performance of "Never Enough" by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Before taking the stage, she spent months practicing and refining every note, ultimately delivering a delicate and emotional performance that moved the audience.
Khai Yen performs "Never Enough". Photo: DTU
She shared that participating in the 12th International Vocal Open Competition was a challenging but meaningful journey for her. With each stage of the competition, she increasingly realized that this was a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with global musical talents.
"This award is a sweet result of my persistent efforts over many months. It not only helped me grow but also made me love and appreciate each step in my musical journey even more," Khai Yen added.
Nurturing a dream of becoming a music lecturer
Khai Yen’s success is closely tied to the artistic environment at DTU, where she works at Silver Swallows Studio. The studio provides strong inspiration through its structured investment in media, performing arts, and content creation. At the studio, she not only organizes art events and produces music videos but she also helps students gain deeper insights into professional performing arts.
Khai Yen performs on both local and international stages. Photo: provided by subject.
Having performed on various stages, Khai Yen nurtures the dream of becoming a music lecturer, guiding younger people who share her love for the arts. She considers herself fortunate to work in the dynamic environment of Duy Tan University, which consistently fosters learning, self-challenge, and pushing boundaries. She is working hard to develop herself, leave her mark, and become more creative and professional every day to have the opportunity to participate in educational activities and directly teach young art enthusiasts.
"I believe that with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, anyone can reach new heights, not only in music but in any field," she affirmed.
Currently, DTU is developing a plan to open a new Vocal Music program next year, to enhance the music and arts education environment in Danang.
(Media Center)