Original Source
CGTN Reporter Explores Uyghur Traditional Music 'Muqam' in Xinjiang
Challenging Muqam in Kashi
CGTN's Nadim Diab returned to Kashi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, not for sightseeing, but to understand and learn the rhythms of Muqam, the traditional Uyghur music. His journey, which began in Urumqi, led him to realize that Muqam is not just music but possesses a 'soul.' Upon arrival in Kashi, Nadim met with locals to gain a deeper understanding of Muqam. He also experienced the spirit of Muqam by dancing with the locals, noting the importance of focusing on oneself without concern for surroundings, which he described as intrinsic to Muqam's essence.
Traditional Music 'Muqam' in Everyday Life
During his exploration of Muqam in Kashi, Nadim discovered that local residents consider Muqam to be a complex musical form combining various instruments. He was particularly impressed by how naturally the locals integrated Muqam into their daily lives. One resident shared that they grew up listening to their parents play and sing Muqam at home, emphasizing that Muqam is intimately connected to life, and a day with music is a perfect day. Through his experiences in Kashi, Nadim concluded that Muqam is more than just a musical technique; it embodies the traditional roots and cultural emotions of folk music, passed down through generations among ordinary people.
*Source: YouTube: CGTN (2026-03-15)*
