A concert marking the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations was held at the Suntory Hall in Tokyo on July 20 with the presence of the Japanese Emperor and Empress.

The concert took place at the Suntory Hall in Tokyo on July 20

After the two countries’ national anthems, the audience enjoyed famous musical pieces of the world and Vietnam performed by artists of the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra (VNSO).

Notably, the symphony “Nguoi ve dem toi ngay vui” (He who brought happiness to us) composed by Trong Bang, describing Vietnamese people’s love for late President Ho Chi Minh, received a big round of applause from the audience. 

The orchestra was led by Japanese conductor Tetsuji Honna, who is also principal conductor and music director of the VNSO.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Nguyen Quoc Cuong said musical exchange is an impressive thing in the two countries’ relations, noting that Nha Nhac (Vietnamese court music) came to Japan in the mid-8th century. 

It could be said that people-to-people exchange between the countries began through music, he added.

The Japanese Emperor and Empress greet the audience at the concert 

The concert, part of a series of activities celebrating 45 years of bilateral diplomatic relations, attracted about 1,500 Vietnamese and Japanese people.

A similar concert took place in Osaka city on July 18.