Musician Nguyen Phu De was born into a traditional music family in the northern province of Hai Duong. His family played Ca Tru, an ancient genre of chamber music from northern Vietnam, for many generations. He was introduced to Dan Day at the age of 10 by his grandfather.
Since UNESCO’s recognition of Ca Tru singing as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005, the government have been interested in launching activities and projects on the preservation and restoration of this ancient genre of music.
The arttisan won a golden medal at the National Ca Tru Festival 2005 at the age of 82 and was honored as a master folk musician in playing Dan Day in the country.
He was bestowed the People’s Artist title for his outstanding contribution in preserving Ca Tru.
He is one of the founders of the Thang Long Ca Tru Club, including 83-year-old singer Nguyen Thi Chuc and singer Pham Thi Hue.
