The grand finale of the 2015 Sao Mai National Television Singing Contest held on August 15th in Thanh Hoa province attracted the attention of music lovers around the country. NUAE’s student – Nguyen Thi Song Thao (No. 18) won the third prize in folk music category.
At the grand finale 12 contestants competed in 3 categories, including chamber music, folk music and pop music. They had been selected from regional qualifying rounds throughout provinces from the north to the south.
Nguyen Thi Song Thao with other contestants at the 2015 Sao Mai grand finale
Nguyen Thi Song Thao won the third prize in folk music category with the solo performance of “Tình làng quê” and the duet of “Bèo dạt mây trôi” with her rival Nguyen Thi Hong Duyen. Thao impressed the audience by her confidence and good vocal music techniques. At the final round for folk music category took place on August 1st, Nguyen Thi Song Thao was chosen by the jury to enter the grand finale and voted as the most favourite contestant by the audience.
Nguyen Thi Song Thao performing solo song “Tình làng quê” (Composer: An Thuyên)
In recent years, especially since its upgrading to university level in 2006, National University of Art Education has made a great effort to seek and promote potential students. Apart from enhancing the quality of the teaching staff, the university has invited a large number of famous artists to give lessons for its students. Together with educating music teachers, NUAE has also organized university-level music competitions, creating favorable condition for music talents to perform at the professional stages. Thanks to this support, NUAE’s students have gained more confidence and performing experience to participate in national music contests.
The third prize at Sao Mai finale is a significant starting point in Thao’s singing career and a foundation for her future achievement in the chosen field.