A pastoral performance

Unlike Qinbugele and Bulga, who both grew up immersed in the ethnic Mongolian culture, Tugqi, 28, the group's khoomei (throat singing) singer and drummer, took a different path. He studied saxophone and orchestral music in Henan province before moving to Shanghai, where he rediscovered his ethnic Mongolian roots.

"After graduating, something pulled me back. I suddenly developed a strong fondness for our traditional music," he explains.

Tugqi joined the Ulan Muqir troupe four years ago and is now skilled in several instruments. Here, everyone is a versatile talent, possessing a variety of musical skills.

For him, performing feels like "sweet torment". After several days of arduous travel, they arrive, greeted by the vast, endless grasslands or deserts. The warm and hospitable herders offer rich, creamy milk tea and authentic local delicacies, instantly washing away the fatigue from the journey.

After indulging in a feast, everyone gathers around, chatting about everything under the sun or in a yurt if there are not too many people. Before long, someone starts an impromptu performance. Tugqi thoroughly enjoys this relaxed, joyful and harmonious atmosphere.

In recent years, he has toured nationwide with the Deji band, being invited to perform at various music festivals and theaters, and even shared the stage with famous singers at their concerts.

"Performing in pastoral areas can be exhausting, but the connections between people are the most direct and genuine," Tugqi says.