A pastoral performance

The troupe performs over 100 times a year within the town, primarily in the summer, when herders are less busy. Winter is a hectic season for them, but summer brings traditional festivals, such as horse racing competitions, camel contests, and traditional Mongolian rituals, for which Deji also performs.

Compared to performing in theaters or music festivals, Qinbugele prefers to perform for herders in pastoral areas. In his own words, "it's like visiting family members".

"The herders know me and treat me like a brother. This warmth between people, the relaxation and freedom of performing, is completely different from stage performances," he says.

Qinbugele is skilled at playing the morin khuur (horse-head fiddle) and music arrangements. He often rearranges ethnic Mongolian folk songs, which the band brings new life to.

Growing up in pastoral areas with the vast Gobi Desert, he describes the local music as rugged and slightly desolate. On summer weekends, seeking inspiration for arrangements, he drives alone to the grassland, sets up a tent, plays recordings, and practices on his horse-head fiddle. At night, he lies on the grass to gaze at the stars, seeking creativity through solitude.

"I think my hometown is amazing. I am proud of our ethnic music," he says.