Chen Zhichao says yangge represents a collective aspect of Chinese culture and is a typical Shaanxi culture. [PHOTO BY HUO YAN/CHINA DAILY]

Bai Qingye, a member of the yangge dance troupe, named huangtudi (yellow earth), which dances near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda every weekend, says: "He is the main drummer as well as the conductor of the team. It's rare to have such a young man performing in a yangge dance troupe now."

"Children from Shaanxi have the talent for yangge dance because it's in our blood. It's a healthy exercise and a fun way to meet friends. Contemporary entertainment challenges yangge, but I'm glad to see that thanks to Chen young people are joining us."

One of the young members of the team is Wang Min, Chen's girlfriend. They met when Chen played drum near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda about a year ago.

"It was love at first sight, and she shares my passion for yangge," Chen says.