Instrument steeped in history stirs modern audiences

Leaving an indelible mark

Challenges abounded in integrating Western classical music with the morin khuur. Jin recollects the initial skepticism and the arduous task of recruiting musicians, exacerbated by the remote location of Uxin Banner. Yet, the Inner Mongolia Arts University's symphony orchestra offered invaluable support, allowing its musicians to collaborate with the morin khuur orchestra.

"With the widespread reputation of our orchestra, more young musicians who trained to become Western classical musicians have become interested in us. We also want to provide them with more opportunities that they can't get from other orchestras, musically and creatively," Jin adds.

The orchestra's inaugural performances in its hometown left an indelible mark on the locals, despite their unfamiliarity with Western classical music. To diversify their repertoire and broaden their appeal, the ensemble invited renowned musicians, including artistic director Chagan, to adapt Inner Mongolian folk melodies while incorporating traditional instruments, such as bamboo flutes, sanxian (three-stringed Chinese lute) and yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer).

Chagan, with over 40 film and TV composition credits to his name, also undertook the task of reinterpreting Western classical pieces, alongside crafting original compositions inspired by Mongolian culture and its people.

"Our aim extends beyond mere international exposure — it's about preserving our cultural roots and showcasing the instrument's inherent beauty," says Chagan.

In 2014, the orchestra embarked on its inaugural nationwide tour, gracing esteemed venues like the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing and prestigious music schools, such as the China Conservatory of Music.

In 2018, the orchestra ventured abroad, enchanting audiences in Nice, France, where the soul-stirring resonance of the morin khuur left an indelible impression. Jin recalls a moment when a music school director in Nice, moved by the performance, pledged to add a morin khuur to his institution's instrument collection.