The Military Symphony Orchestra was established on October 26, 2025, under Decision No. 5399/QD-BQP dated October 26, 2025, issued by the Minister of National Defence. It operates under the Military University of Culture and Arts and follows an expanded symphony orchestra model, bringing together string, woodwind, brass, and percussion sections, as well as electronic instruments, comparable to symphony orchestras in Austria, France, and Germany.
The establishment of the Military Symphony Orchestra marks a new stage in the development of professional artistic forces within the Viet Nam People’s Army, highlighting the role of classical music in artistic life.
Highlights from major meaningful artistic programmes
During its first year, the Military Symphony Orchestra took part in staging and performing a number of large-scale artistic programmes associated with important political and historical events of the country and the military. Each programme provided a creative platform for symphonic music to convey messages about history, patriotism, national pride, and aspirations for national development.
A notable example was “Giao huong non song” (Symphony of the Nation), held to mark the 51st anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975–April 30, 2026). Through the expressive language of symphonic music, the programme helped bring to life glorious chapters of history, honour the values of peace, independence, and reunification, and inspire pride in the nation’s traditions.
In international cultural exchange and cooperation, the Military Symphony Orchestra participated in “Thanh am ket noi” (The Sound of Connection), a concert organised in collaboration with Brigham Young University of the US. The event created a space for artistic exchange between cultures, demonstrating music’s ability to connect people across language barriers while providing opportunities for professional exchange and greater understanding between Vietnamese artists and international partners.
As part of the military’s political duties, the Military Symphony Orchestra performed at an artistic programme marking the 2026 All-Army Excellent Rapporteurs Contest. The orchestra also took part in “Vung tin theo Dang – Xung danh anh hung” (Faithfully Following the Party – Living Up to the Heroic Name), held to celebrate the Department of Propaganda and Training under the General Department of Politics of the Viet Nam People’s Army receiving the title of Hero of the People’s Armed Forces.
In addition, the Military Symphony Orchestra performed in a live television programme marking the 50th anniversary of the Viet Nam Dairy Products Joint Stock Company (Vinamilk), themed “Phung su khat vong Viet” (Serving Viet Nam’s Aspirations). The orchestra’s participation in a major cultural and corporate event demonstrated its ability to adapt to different types of programmes, from performances serving political duties to community events, television broadcasts, and cultural exchanges. Its activities during the first year show that the Military Symphony Orchestra has gradually expanded its performance opportunities, strengthened coordination with agencies, units, and partners, and demonstrated the versatility of a professional symphony orchestra within the military.
Affirming the identity of artist-soldiers in new era
Behind every programme lies a process of dedicated artistic work, requiring professional expertise, close coordination, and a strong sense of responsibility from every member. For the Military Symphony Orchestra, professional artistic standards go hand in hand with organisation, discipline, and the qualities expected of artist-soldiers. These foundations enable the orchestra to deliver high-quality performances while fulfilling its assigned political and cultural duties.
A notable milestone in the Military Symphony Orchestra’s development was “Thanh am duoi anh mat troi” (Sounds Under the Sunlight), which premiered at Ho Guom Theatre. The programme served as the orchestra’s official artistic debut on the professional stage, combining the finest elements of symphonic music with Viet Nam’s cultural and historical values and national spirit.
Alongside performing classical and contemporary symphonic works, the Military Symphony Orchestra has opportunities to showcase Vietnamese revolutionary music through the symphonic idiom. Melodies associated with the nation’s history are presented in an expressive artistic form, enriching musical life and bringing traditional values closer to the public, particularly younger generations.
Continuing to bring symphonic music closer to the public
One year after its establishment, the Military Symphony Orchestra’s activities mark the beginning of the development of a professional symphony orchestra within the military. Through artistic programmes serving political duties, major cultural events, and international exchanges, the orchestra has gradually gained experience, expanded its cooperation networks, and established its role in artistic life.
Looking ahead, the Military Symphony Orchestra will need to continue improving performance quality, developing its own artistic identity, promoting the value of Vietnamese symphonic music, and reaching wider audiences. In doing so, the orchestra will not only contribute to the military’s cultural and artistic mission but also help promote the image of Viet Nam and its people through the language of music.
The first anniversary marks the beginning of a new journey and opens up fresh expectations. The Military Symphony Orchestra will continue working towards bringing classical music into everyday life and enriching the artistic landscape of the military in the new era.
