Sao Mai competition returns with new format, seeking outstanding voices

Vietnam Television's Arts Department has officially opened applications for the Sao Mai singing competition, embarking on a nationwide search for the country's most exceptional vocalists. The contest is a significant platform for discovering and nurturing musical talent in Vietnam.

Eligible participants are Vietnamese citizens, or those of Vietnamese origin holding foreign nationality, aged between 18 and 30. Applications are open until July 30. Contestants must demonstrate strong vocal abilities, clear musical understanding, and the skill to effectively interpret and convey emotion through their performances. The selection process includes preliminary and regional qualifying rounds in the North and South, with official filming scheduled from September to November.

Originally known as the National Television Singing Festival since 1997 and officially renamed Sao Mai in 2001, the competition has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous prominent Vietnamese artists. Notable alumni include Trọng Tấn, Anh Thơ, Phạm Phương Thảo, Đào Tố Loan, and Nguyễn Trần Trung Quân, among others who have achieved significant recognition in the Vietnamese music scene.

This iteration of Sao Mai promises a revamped format designed to resonate with contemporary audiences while upholding its core mission of identifying genuine musical talent. The competition encompasses three distinct musical styles: classical, folk, and light music. The last edition was held in 2022, with winners Phạm Thị Lan Quỳnh (Classical), Lê Thị Minh Ngọc (Folk), and Trịnh Văn Núi (Light Music) crowned. Although scheduled for 2024, the competition was postponed, leading to this current relaunch.