Ha Thi Cau

Ha Thi Cau (1928–2013) was regarded as the last great practitioner of xam, a traditional form of Vietnamese folk singing, in the 20th century. She was also described as a “living human treasure.” Her real name was Ha Thi Nam. The name “Cau” came from her eldest son, following a local naming custom in Yen Mo, Ninh Binh Province, where mothers were often addressed by their eldest son's name. In 2003, she was awarded the title of Meritorious Artist by the Vietnamese government for her contributions to xam singing. Her distinctive voice and traditional xam melodies are considered a precious part of the surviving heritage of this art form. On December 25, 2004, the Vietnam Folk Arts Association honored her with the title of Folk Artisan. In 2008, she received the Dao Tan Award. Despite these awards and honors, she lived in poverty until the end of her life. Her family was among the poorest households in Yen Phong Commune.