The Harvard Din & Tonics and EF Mariners - the musical bridge at USSH

On July 28, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City (USSH-VNUHCM) hosted a Musical Exchange featuring The Harvard Din & Tonics, the renowned A cappella group from Harvard University (United States), at Nhan Van Hall. The event offered audiences an inspiring musical experience while promoting artistic exchange and strengthening connections between Vietnamese students and their international peers.

Attending the event were Vice President Dr. Le Hoang Dung, the members of the Faculty of English Linguistics and Literature and representatives from functional offices in USSH. The Harvard Din & Tonics delegation included Mr. Nguyen Duy Khang, President of the group, along with 12 members. The program attracted a large audience of faculty members, students from USSH and other universities, and music enthusiasts.

Dr. Le Hoang Dung emphasized the University's commitment to providing students with opportunities to engage with global cultures, arts, and knowledge.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Le Hoang Dung noted: "Today's program is more than a musical performance—it is an open classroom where students can experience firsthand how cultural exchange and the arts build meaningful connections across communities and cultures."

Noting the role of music as the bridge that connects all nations, culture, and languages, he expressed his hope that the event hosted by The Harvard Din & Tonics and the Faculty of English Linguistics and Literature would inspire students to further develop their English proficiency, broaden their global perspectives, foster creativity, strengthen teamwork skills, and build the confidence required to soar all around the world.

The Harvard Din & Tonics perform Lullaby of Birdland.

The audience was enraptured by the vibrant atmosphere and masterful techniques at the concert from the very first few performances. The Harvard Din & Tonics presented 15 carefully curated performances, including jazz and pop classics like What a Wonderful World, Lullaby of Birdland, Fly Medley, and The Moon Represents My Heart. With their exceptional vocal harmonies performed entirely without instrumental accompaniment, combined with an energetic and engaging stage presence, the ensemble delivered a memorable performance that resonated deeply with the audience.

The EF Mariners opened the evening with the themed performance “On the Waves,” dressed in sailor-inspired costumes.

Joining the program were The EF Mariners, a vocal ensemble of lecturers and students from the Faculty of English Linguistics and Literature, who presented the themed performance "On the Waves." Their performance included How Far I'll Go, Wellerman, Leave Her, Johnny, and The Last Shanty - a carefully chosen repertoire that shows EF's knowledge of US and UK language, culture, people, and music. Blending maritime-inspired melodies with heartfelt performances, the group added their unique tune to the evening's musical landscape while reinforcing the spirit of cultural exchange, connection, and artistic expression. 

The program attracted students from numerous universities across Ho Chi Minh City.

Beyond the performances, the event also featured an interactive exchange between members of The Harvard Din & Tonics and the audience. Through conversations about their artistic journey, international tours, and impressions of Vietnam, the performers shared valuable insights and inspired students with stories of creativity, collaboration, and the transformative power of cultural exchange.

The closing moments of the program highlighted music as a bridge connecting people across cultures.

Concluding on a vibrant and emotional note, the Musical Exchange with The Harvard Din & Tonics left participants with lasting memories while celebrating the unifying power of music and intercultural dialogue. The event also reaffirmed USSH-VNUHCM's commitment to internationalization  and EF's role in fostering a dynamic, multicultural, and globally connected learning environment.

More highlights from the program: