Children's choirs unite in harmony

"Some sculpted roses, others crafted star shapes, and one child molded the clay into the likeness of Wuzhi Mountain itself, expressing a deep fondness for the locale," said Li Ye, the interpreter.

Anouk du Chaffaut, a member of the Parisian choir, sculpted a Li pottery piece to gift to her close friend Wang Mingru, a member of the Wuzhishan chorus. The item not only has Wang's name etched into it, but also features traditional patterns from Li culture. Chaffaut said she hopes that when Wang looks at the piece of pottery, she will think of her French friend.

Valentin Remond Lebec, a member of the French choir, said: "Hainan is even more beautiful than I imagined, and it is different from other parts of China I have visited before. There is more vegetation here, with lush greenery as far as the eye can see. I find it incredibly beautiful, and I really like it."

Trigo, the founder of the Parisian choir, said the visit to Wuzhishan, with its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich ethnic heritage, had introduced her to a different side of China.

"We brought 25 children this time, and there were 25 children who couldn't come," she said. "We will share our experiences with those who couldn't make it and take back souvenirs, including Li brocade ribbons, skirts and picture frames, local tea from Wuzhishan, and Li pottery vases."

Le Choeur des Polysons has around 50 members ranging in age from seven to 15 years old. It was established in 1994 and has performed in many countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, and Switzerland.

Trigo said that all the children in the choir will wear the Li brocade ribbons during the choir's 30th-anniversary celebration in Paris in December.