What is Hua'er?

Hua'er, literally meaning flower, is a unique form of folk song popular among several different ethnic groups in the northwestern provinces of Gansu Qinghai, Ningxia and Xinjiang.

The form has a long history and rich content and reflects the harsh and intense life of the plateau peoples. It is very popular among local people.

Most Hua'er works are love songs that express a message of hope overcoming hardship. Facing an unforgiving natural environment, the people sing loudly and sonorously using bold harmonies and rhythms to express their heartfelt sentiments.

Hua'er lyrics are simple, frank and fervent. Most describe the irresistible charm of the singer's lover. In their raw expression of desire they are more like modern rock music than traditional folk songs.

Qinghai is the birthplace of Hua'er, and the art form is most popular in the Hehuang Region in the east of the province.

Every summer there is a "Hua'er Meeting," in Hehuang that attracts hundreds of thousands of people. It provides a chance for people who have been working hard all year to relax and get together in a carnival atmosphere. For the young it's also a time for courtship. It is also perfect setting to hear performances of Hua'er music.