Celebrating the Soulful Sounds of Vietnam at the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center
On October 19th, Thuyen May Productions, in collaboration with the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center, hosted a captivating Hear & Learn: Traditional Vietnamese Instruments session featuring guest speaker Baolinh Than, Esq. The event drew more than two dozen guests, all eager to explore the rich musical heritage of Vietnam.
Baolinh introduced attendees to three of Vietnam’s most beloved traditional instruments, each carrying its own unique voice and story:
- Đàn bầu – the hauntingly expressive one-stringed monochord, known for its emotional depth.
- Đàn kìm – the elegant moon-shaped lute that produces warm, melodic tones.
- Đàn cò – the soulful two-stringed fiddle, often described as the heart of Vietnamese folk music.
Throughout the afternoon, Baolinh brought the music to life with live demonstrations, offering both historical context and cultural insight into how these instruments have shaped Vietnamese identity across generations. The event resonated with attendees, blending education and artistry in a way that celebrated connection through culture.
This free program is part of Thuyen May Productions’ Fall Series, which continues through December with monthly opportunities to experience the beauty of Asian traditions firsthand. Upcoming sessions include:
- Sip & Learn: The Mindful Brewing Gong Fu Tea Experience – Sunday, November 16, 1:00–2:00 PM
Discover the art of Gong Fu tea brewing, a centuries-old practice that emphasizes mindfulness, patience, and connection through the simple yet profound act of preparing and sharing tea. - Breathe & Learn: Mindfulness Meditation – Sunday, December 21, 1:00–2:00 PM at the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center
Explore techniques that help cultivate presence, calm, and inner peace in this guided mindfulness meditation experience.
Those who are inspired to experience Vietnamese culture beyond these workshops are invited to connect with Thuyen May Productions’ weekly dance practices, held each Sunday at 2 pm at the East Orlando Gym. These sessions offer a welcoming space for anyone interested in learning the traditional dance of Vietnam—a graceful and meaningful way to celebrate cultural heritage and community spirit.
For details on upcoming events or to learn more about how to get involved, visit the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center calendar or follow along on social media for updates.
A special thank you to www.AsiaTrend.org for supporting the event and providing the photographs.
