The musician discussed his work, life, upcoming performances at the Sound Healing Concert on 6/9 and 7/9 in Ho Chi Minh City, and new music releases.

Tran Manh Tuan spoke about preparing for upcoming events: "Every morning, I spend time walking and doing light exercises. I can walk much better than before, using a cane instead of relying entirely on a wheelchair. In the afternoons, I practice the saxophone or teach. My only issue is my throat; after surgery and having a breathing tube, my voice is now harder to hear." He expressed joy in reopening his jazz club and performing with colleagues and students. "Seeing the students grow and express their talent and passion gives me faith in the younger generation of artists," he said. "Recently, a former Canadian student emailed me about arranging Trinh Cong Son's music, offering fresh and creative ideas. Small joys like these keep me excited and energized."

Tran Manh Tuan performing at a Trinh Cong Son concert in Hanoi in March. Photo: Tung Dinh

Tran Manh Tuan's music has evolved since his recovery. He explained, "My wife, a Buddhist for many years, is vegetarian and chants regularly. She encouraged me to explore healing music. In January, I was invited to perform at the World Buddhist Sangha Council in Nepal. I rearranged the Great Compassion Mantra, and the audience loved it. That inspired me to pursue this new genre. I now focus on peaceful melodies, unlike my younger, more experimental self. The saxophone is a modern instrument, with a diverse range, capable of both high and low notes. It helps listeners forget their fatigue and worries; it's perfect for this type of music." At the Sound Healing Concert, he will perform his new composition, "Sen," a piece with a distinct Vietnamese spirit. He will also perform Trinh Cong Son's "Cat Bui" ("Dust"), a song about the impermanence of life. He plans to release more healing music in the future.

Reflecting on his near-death experiences, he remembers his wife's unwavering support during his illness, which coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic. "My wife had no help, yet she single-handedly cared for me. When I regained consciousness, she tremblingly fed me porridge, saying, 'Eat not just for yourself, but for me, our daughter, our son, your mother, for our family.'" He shared a touching moment: "She later told me that she had wished she could trade her health for mine. I once told her, 'I'm so sorry, I love you so much. I haven't fulfilled my responsibilities, causing you such hardship.' I feel so lucky. After dating a few women, I ended up with my wife, the angel of my life." His wife continues to be his manager and biggest supporter, even arranging travel logistics for his upcoming international performances.

Tran Manh Tuan and his wife celebrating their anniversary in April. Photo: Provided by the artist

Now, Tran Manh Tuan cherishes family and music above all. "My mother is 89. Last month, she was hospitalized, and it broke my heart. I just want to spend as much time with her as possible." He also expressed pride in his daughter, An Tran, a Berklee College of Music graduate who earned scholarships throughout her four years. "Thanks to my family, I never felt pessimistic, even in my darkest moments." He views his role as more than just a musician, but as an inspiration. "Besides performing, I want to share my life story, the ups and downs I've experienced. I've noticed many people focus solely on making money, only to realize the value of life when illness strikes. I tell my friends, 'At some point, like me, you'll realize that money doesn't mean anything.'" He now leads a fulfilling life, where money and material possessions hold little importance. He focuses on meaningful work, contributing to the community. He proudly recounts organizing a charity concert after his recovery, auctioning a saxophone and raising 1 billion VND. "Performing for free at hospitals, seeing the children's eager eyes, their joy fuels me."

In September, he will release two books: a music instruction book with online video tutorials and his autobiography. "I've lived a worthwhile life, from a boy in Hanoi's Old Quarter to a seasoned musician. I've met numerous heads of state and performed on unimaginable stages. My achievements are easily found on ChatGPT or Google, so the book will focus on personal memories and experiences."

Tran Manh Tuan, 55, is the only saxophonist nominated five times for the Cong Hien Award. He founded the Sax n' Art jazz club in Ho Chi Minh City and was a judge on Vietnam Idol in 2008. He has released dozens of albums, including "Doc Tau Saxophone Tran Manh Tuan" (1997), "Loi Ru Mat Em" (2000) with Vu Quang Trung, Tran Thu Ha, and Bang Kieu, "Bien Khat" (2001), "Ha Trang" (2002), "Ve Que" (2003), and "Ru Ta Ngam Nguoi" (2009).

In 8/2021, he underwent two brain surgeries in three days. After overcoming this, he required physical therapy to regain mobility. Two years later, he had a third brain surgery due to complications from Covid-19. In 2023, after a period of recovery, he gradually returned to performing.

Ha Thu