Nha Nhac Music of Vietnamese

　　Proclamation: 2003

　　Member State(s): Viet Nam

　　Region: Asia-Pacific

　　Associated themes: Traditional music

　　Meaning literally "elegant music," Nha nhac refers to the broad range of musical and dance styles performed at the Vietnamese royal court from the 15th to the mid-20th century. Nha nhac was generally featured at the opening and closing of ceremonies associated with anniversaries, religious holidays, coronations, funerals and official receptions. Among the numerous musical genres that developed in Vietnam, only Nha nhac can claim a nationwide scope and strong links with traditions of other East Asian countries. Spectacular Nha nhac performances formerly featured numerous singers, dancers and musicians outfitted in sumptuous costumes made of fine fabrics with exquisite detailing. Large-scale orchestras with a predominant drum section included many other types of percussion instruments, chimes, gongs, bells and clappers, as well as a variety of wind and string instruments, such as flutes, pipes, horns, zithers and lutes. All performers had to maintain a high level of concentration since they were expected to painstakingly follow each step of the ritual.

　　Nha nhac developed during the Le dynasty (1427-1788) and became highly institutionalized and codified by the Nguyen monarchs (1802-1945), who reigned from the imperial capital of Hue. As a symbol of the dynasty's power and longevity, Nha nhac became an essential part of the court's rituals, and each year it was performed at some one hundred ceremonies. However, the role of Nha nhac was not limited to musical accompaniment for court rituals: it also provided a means of communicating with and paying tribute to the gods and kings as well as transmitting philosophical thought and key aspects of the Vietnamese cosmology.