Silk Road soundtrack returns in full volume
Ancient Uygur melodies, once nearly forgotten, are back with fresh energy and global acclaim, Wang Xin reports in Shanghai.
Muqam ensembles feature lead instruments made from local materials and vary in form. The dancing skills involve unique steps, rhythms and formations, as well as movements such as flower-picking-by-mouth, bowl-carrying-on-head, and imitation of animals in solo dances.
Wang describes Muqam as an artistic lens through which one can understand Uygur life and worldview. "Muqam can be seen as an encyclopedia reflecting the life and social landscape of the Uygur ethnic group," he says. "Its musical patterns reveal a strong sense of continuity and inclusiveness, showing deep cultural connections between Xinjiang and China's central plains.
"Today, the Muqam art in Xinjiang has developed into four main regional styles, namely the Twelve Muqam, Dolan Muqam, Turpan Muqam and Hami Muqam. Each carries a distinct aesthetic personality. The Twelve Muqam is renowned for its elegance, while Turpan Muqam radiates warmth and humor. Hami Muqam has an affectionate and vibrant nature, and Dolan Muqam is known for its vigorous and unrestrained qualities, according to a report by the Xinjiang Daily.
