Page 20 - YunnanTourismCultureTimes (105)

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Recording the serenade of the open grasslands

用声音记录草原的辽阔

Hunan TV’s top-rated music competition show, rock elements. innovation. Focusing on the rich musical heritage of
“Singer,” is making its comeback after a three-year hiatus, Their music is profoundly shaped by traditional the Mongolian people, they explore ancient melodies,
offering audiences a chance to immerse themselves in the Mongolian influences, prominently featuring throat singing as rhythms, and instruments, striving to recreate and
genuine texture of the singers’ voices. The addition of a key element. When paired with traditional instruments like the transform these traditional elements within the context of
the Hanggai music group has sparked excitement among Morin Khuur (horsehead fiddle), listeners are easily transported modern music.
netizens, with many declaring, “A dream come true.” to expansive grasslands alive with galloping horses. Hanggai’s music transcends mere art; it embodies
What is the background of Hanggai? It is a rock band Since their formation in 2004, their music has cultural heritage as well. While they started as a rock
originating from the grasslands of Inner Mongolia. The crossed borders, serving as a signature representation of band, they have consistently embraced their exploration
name “Hanggai” is derived from Mongolian, signifying Chinese music on the global stage. They have performed of ethnic roots throughout their musical journey over the
an idyllic realm characterized by blue skies, white clouds, at prestigious international outdoor music festivals as past decade.
grassy plains, rivers, mountains, and forests. well as iconic venues such as the Royal Opera House in In this ongoing search, they not only uncovered their
In 2015, Hanggai claimed first place in the original London and Lincoln Center in New York. cultural heritage but also discovered a musical expression
music reality show “Sing My Song Season 2” with However, the members of Hanggai view these that resonates deeply with them. They have thoroughly
their self-titled song “Hanggai.” The track begins with accomplishments as secondary to their true pride. explored the foundations of Mongolian folk music while
a traditional Mongolian long tune before shifting into a They place greater emphasis on the music itself and blending it with contemporary rock styles, resulting in
rock rhythm, highlighting the band’s musical prowess the emotions and connections it evokes in listeners. a world music that is rich in ethnic characteristics and
through its distinctive fusion of ethnic influences and They recognize that music embodies both tradition and giving rise to the distinctive “Hanggai” style.