“The Great Circle of Vietnam” resonates by the Perfume River

Mr. Vo Le Nhat, Secretary of the Party Committee of Phu Xuan Ward (second from left), with the family and friends of the late musician at the stele unveiling

The afternoon of September 22nd was filled with emotion for many admirers of Trinh Cong Son’s music, as they witnessed the unveiling of the stone stele bearing the lyrics of “The Great Circle of Vietnam” by the Perfume River. The stele, weighing 21 tons and of considerable size, was crafted by artisans from Non Nuoc stone-carving village in Da Nang, who carefully etched each line of the song. Alongside the title, melody, and lyrics, the late musician’s signature is also presented in a dignified manner.

According to researcher Nguyen Dac Xuan, Chairman of the Association for the Study and Development of Hue’s Cultural Heritage, Trinh Cong Son’s musical career originated and flourished in Hue before spreading across the country. He also noted that historical records had indicated that after April 30th, 1975, the song was broadcast on Saigon Radio.

Nearly half a century later, “The Great Circle of Vietnam” continues to resonate at community events and concerts. Beyond Vietnam, the song carries a message of global peace and human connection.

Saxophonist Tran Manh Tuan performing Trinh Cong Son’s music

Before an audience of Trinh music lovers, Trinh Vinh Trinh - the late musician’s younger sister expressed her family’s heartfelt joy at being present in the park on the street named after her brother, and especially at witnessing the erection of the stone stele honouring his renowned song.

“Son has returned to Hue through a street name, a statue, and now a stone stele engraved his song ‘The Great Circle of Vietnam’… The street named after Trinh Cong Son is a token of Hue’s affection; the statue and stele are the sentiments of friends and the public for him. What Hue and friends have dedicated to my brother is truly profound and beautiful,” Ms. Trinh shared.

As twilight fell over Trinh Cong Son Park by the Perfume River, the timeless songs of the late composer once again came alive through the saxophone of Tran Manh Tuan and the voices of singers Duc Tuan, Tan Son, Ha Le… alongside countless admirers of Trinh’s music.