Two Contestants Eliminated in Vietnam's Golden Bell Vong Co Competition Finals

The first night of the finals for the 21st Golden Bell Vong Co Competition in 2026 took place on September 6th at the Ho Chi Minh City Radio and Television Station's studios, themed "Traveling Across Vietnam." Nine contestants were divided into three teams, each guided by one of three coaches: People's Artist Ho Ngoc Trinh, Meritorious Artist Vo Minh Lam, and Meritorious Artist Ngoc Doi. The judging panel included two professional judges who would follow throughout the four final nights: People's Artist Phuong Loan and People's Artist Trong Phuc, along with a rotating guest judge, Meritorious Artist Kim Tu Long. In the team representing the northern region, contestant Lam Chi Ngoan received feedback on improving vocal strength and resonance, while Tran Van Khiem was praised for his distinctive voice and expressive delivery. For the central region team, Nguyen Thi My Duyen showed remarkable progress, though Huynh Van Tanh unfortunately forgot his lyrics. Tran Tri Khang impressed with his deep voice but was advised to convey more emotion and flexibility. Representing the southern region, contestant Nguyen Thi Ngoc Nhu received detailed advice on vocal techniques, including breath control and clear articulation, and maintaining confidence on stage. Specifically, she was reminded to improve vocal smoothness and avoid breathlessness in her Vong Co passages. At the conclusion of the first night, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Nhu and Lam Chi Ngoan were eliminated from the competition. Nguyen Thi My Duyen secured the highest score of the night with 95.75 points. The second night of the finals will be held on September 13th, with two more contestants to be eliminated, narrowing the field to five for the third final night. For over 20 years, the Golden Bell Vong Co Competition, co-organized by Ho Chi Minh City Radio and Television, with sponsorship from Saigon Bank for Industry and Trade (Saigonbank), has not only sought to discover Cai Luong talents but also carries the mission of preserving the nation's precious artistic heritage. Each season introduces new faces, new voices, and inspiring stories of love for Cai Luong.