Fang Jinlong enchants Xinjiang with Silk Road melodies

Renowned traditional musician Fang Jinlong embarked on a cultural journey to Hotan prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, on Monday, captivating audiences with his talent and exploring the region's musical heritage.

Fang's visit featured two key missions: a grand concert titled Kunlun Heavenly Melody: Chinese Music in Hotan and a quest to decode the fusion of music along the Silk Road.

At the Hotan Museum, he marveled at a pipa from the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and reflected on its evolution as a symbol of cultural exchange.

"This small instrument embodies the wisdom of the ancients," he said.

During the concert, a highlight was Welcome to Hotan, his joint performance with a troupe that moved audience members to tears.

Appointed as Hotan's cultural tourism ambassador, Fang established music studios in Hotan and Kuqa to nurture local talent.

"The pipa originated from here," Fang said. "It's time to let it shine again from its root."