Vietnam plans digital sound archive and music map
Submissions run from October 12 to November 30, with creators retaining copyright over works shared through the programme.
A Vietnamese music initiative is accepting contributions to help build the Vietnam Melody Bank and Vietnam Music Map, with an awards ceremony and announcement of results expected in December 2026. The programme aims to preserve musical heritage while supporting creative work and cultural industries.
Vietnamese citizens living in the country or overseas can participate, along with international contributors who love Vietnam. Three activities offer different ways to take part: an online knowledge competition called Vietnam Sound Quiz, short video submissions through Vietnam Sound Experience, and creative entries for Vietnamese Sound Innovation.
The quiz covers subjects including songs, instruments and folk traditions. Video contributors can share personal recollections or views about Vietnamese music. Creative works can draw on speech, everyday sounds and cultural soundscapes as well as music, combining audio with visual or other digital art.
Selected contributions may appear on the programme’s official platform and later enter the Vietnam Melody Bank. Entries would carry details about their creators, copyright, related rights and permitted uses. Organisers said participants allow publication of their audio for public-benefit purposes but retain copyright and rights to exploit their work.
At the launch, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Huy Dung said the initiative sought to improve public music knowledge and enable people to create digital sounds for future generations. Organisers envisage the bank as a place to share and trade Vietnamese sounds, and hope creators can earn income if the initiative succeeds.
