Thirteen-year-old Duong Duc Hai left a strong impression when he performed with the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra from the United States.

He was the only child artist featured in the special concert, which also included both Vietnamese and international stars.

The performance was part of a special cultural event held at the Ho Guom Opera House in Hanoi to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam - US Society.

Titled Vietnam - US Musical Connection, the program featured outstanding artists from both nations, including the renowned Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra conducted by international maestro Henry Cheng, along with 45 musicians from the United States.

The orchestra’s presence was a rare treat for Vietnamese audiences, especially fans of classical symphonic music.

Accompanying the orchestra were celebrated performers such as Vietnamese singer Tung Duong, pianist Maxim Lando, and 17-year-old American vocalist Mikaela Ayira, who reached the Top 5 on The Voice US.

Young opera singer Duong Duc Hai was honored to join the program.

Singing with a world-class symphony orchestra is a rare privilege and an immense challenge for any artist.

However, the eighth-grade student from Nam Tu Liem Secondary School in Hanoi took the stage with confidence and grace, delivering a powerful rendition of the classic Italian song Mamma to resounding applause.

Mamma, composed by Cesare Andrea Bixio with lyrics by Bruno Cherubini, is a timeless Italian ballad.

The orchestral arrangement was crafted by Vietnamese musician and conductor Dustin T., and Duong Duc Hai’s performance was praised for its professionalism and emotional depth.

“I feel deeply honored to participate in this performance,” Hai shared with VietNamNet.

“I chose Mamma not only to serve the audience but also as a gift for my mother, who always cares for and loves me. I also want to dedicate this song to my teachers, whom I consider second mothers, in celebration of Vietnamese Women's Day on October 20.”

In 2025, Duong Duc Hai achieved significant success on the opera stage.

He was the youngest contestant in the Crescendo 2025 competition in Vietnam, where he competed in two categories and won both: First Prize in the Festival (non-professional) category and Special Prize in the Competition category, which is reserved for formally trained vocal students.

He also represented Vietnam at the TSP International Arts Festival in China, where he earned a Gold Medal.

This prestigious event, held in Shanghai, is organized by the Center for International Cultural Exchange under China’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, and attracts thousands of contestants for its preliminary and final rounds.

Huyen My