Words from the Producer

Origins of the Amdo Ballad and Instrumental Field Research

My first encounter with Amdo Ballad Singing as a musical form took place in 2018 at a Tibetan performance venue in Xining, Qinghai Province — a type of establishment known locally as a “Langma Hall.” I was immediately captivated by the unique instruments and melodic charm of the music performed there. Out of curiosity, I asked the performers, “If I want to learn Amdo Ballad Singing, where should I go?”

The performers provided me with two key pieces of advice:
First, they suggested I visit Maqu County in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, the heartland where Amdo Ballad Singing thrives, to fully immerse myself in the authentic musical atmosphere.
Second, they recommended that I study the repertoire of Dubhe, a highly respected Amdo Ballad singer and instrumentalist.