A song for the grasslands

The Sonid Right Banner in Xiliin Gol League was the first Ulan Muqir, which was formed on June 17, 1957.

In 2017, performers of the Sonid Right Banner Ulan Muqir troupe wrote to President Xi Jinping, reviewing the art troupe's history during the past six decades as well as expressing their commitment to the development of the art troupe.

In the letter that Xi wrote back, he called on its members to preserve the tradition of Ulan Muqir and promote artistic innovation.

"In the new era, I hope you can carry forward the fine tradition of Ulan Muqir, and keep on serving the herdsmen," Xi wrote in the letter.

"It was a great encouragement for all of us, who are devoted to the Ulan Muqir art troupes," says Bukh.

While preserving the spirit of Ulan Muqir, artists also have tried to update their performances with new works, which are mostly based on the daily lives of Mongolian people. Bukh says that his troupe has the tradition of training young performers to carry on the legacy. They compose songs, which are based on local folk ballads as well as mixing contemporary music to entertain audiences of all ages.