The Xinjiang Art Theater Traditional Orchestra is a full-size ethnic orchestra comprised of leading musicians from a range of Xinjiang musical styles. The Orchestra has received numerous accolades both in China and overseas, and has developed an extensive repertoire of traditional folk music that showcases the unique charm of Xinjiang’s musical heritage.

Recent performances and creations include Kashgar Rhapsody, Tashway, Peony Khan, My Rawap, Spring in Xinjiang, The Grapes are Ripe, and the concert series ‘Beyond the Mountains’. Notable accolades include a gold award at the Northwest Music Festival in 2010, and a gold award in the Traditional Ensemble category at the CCTV National Chinese Instrumental Competition in 2012.

With the active promotion of the Xinjiang ethnic music industry and leadership by the party and government, the Orchestra was formed in 2009 following a merger of the Xinjiang Song and Dance Troupe Orchestra and the Xinjiang Opera Troupe Orchestra. Since its establishment, it has remained true to its founding mission of promoting and exploring Xinjiang’s musical heritage, and has also made many achievements in collecting and organising Xinjiang ethnic music, with a particular focus on preserving and reimagining the region’s traditional instruments.

The Orchestra has toured more than 70 countries and regions, including the UK, France, Germany, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Egypt and Japan. In recent years, it has strengthened its partnerships with performers, composers, conductors and folk music experts from China and overseas, including Nusileti Wajiding, Xi Qiang, Yan Huichang, Han Lankui, Zhu Xiaogu, Wang Fujian, Xu Zhijun, Liu Yiran, Wang Danhong, Jiang Ying, Wang Yunfei, Su Xiao, and Enwer Wajiding.

As a young and dynamic ensemble, the Xinjiang Art Theater Traditional Orchestra is committed to bringing Xinjiang’s rich musical heritage to a global audience and working hard to achieve brilliance.

Leader:

Nuerbana Yiming

Performing Members:

Ayiguli Abulimiti (Ghijak)
Miheriguli Abulizi (Satar)
Maierhaba Nuermaimaiti (Tembur)
Aerzigu Bake (Rawap)
Paerhati Yasen (Dap)
Alimu Sikandaner (Tash & Nagra)
Aizezi Abulimiti (Soprano Suona)