A symphony program featuring classic film scores, held at the National Convention Center on the evening of 19/7, attracted 3,500 attendees. The performance integrated three distinct themes: Ghibli, Disney, and Harry Potter. To connect the various film scores, the visual component included segments showing a train passing across three LED screens.

Conductor Mai Xuan Hai leads the orchestra. *Photo: Courtesy of the organizers*

Over three hours, under the baton of conductor Mai Xuan Hai, the orchestra created an atmosphere connecting the audience with childhood memories. The Ghibli segment opened with pieces like "One Summer's Day" and "The Dragon Boy" (from Spirited Away), along with "Merry-Go-Round of Life" (from Howl's Moving Castle). The selected compositions featured slow, tranquil melodies, evoking a poetic ambiance.

Following this was the Harry Potter segment, featuring "Hedwig's Theme" and "Witches, Wands and Wizards." The transition between these two musical chapters highlighted a cultural convergence between Asia and Europe. While Ghibli focused on dreaminess and tranquility, Harry Potter's music conveyed a mysterious, dramatic Western essence. The urgent rhythms depicted the cinematic world of wizards.

The orchestra performs "I See The Light" (from the film "Tangled"). *Video: Khanh Linh*

The final segment of the program featured works from Disney, which received significant applause from the audience. Selections included pieces from iconic films such as "The Lion King," "The Prince of Egypt," "Mulan," "Pirates of the Caribbean," and "Tangled." This was the only part of the show to feature guest singers. The blend of vocals with orchestral music made the performances more vibrant and accessible to listeners.

The symphony evening featured a full orchestra, creating multi-layered soundscapes. A large string section carried the main melodies, while contrabasses provided the bass range. Diverse percussion instruments maintained the rhythm, and a 60-member choir supported the delivery of climactic segments. The organizers invested in sound and lighting, utilizing 3D mapping technology to create visually striking effects.

According to a program representative, the name "The Everland" metaphorically represents a space that preserves time. The melodies not only evoke childhood memories but also serve as a spiritual anchor, accompanying individuals through their growth.

Minh Trang, 20, from Hanoi, expressed surprise at hearing the film scores performed live by a symphony orchestra. "This vivid and authentic feeling is something digital devices struggle to convey fully," she said.

Earlier, many attendees arrived early, eagerly taking photos before the program began. The event lobby was decorated with a fairy tale door theme, featuring costumed characters such as Princess Belle, Jasmine, and No-Face.

The concert program ran for two nights, 18/7 and 19/7, with a distinct repertoire for each evening. The event marked the 10th anniversary (2016-2026) of Childhood Memory, a recurring performance series dedicated to connecting symphony music with young audiences.

Khanh Linh