Known as "Galao" among the locals, the grand songs of the Dong ethnic group earned this name because they are traditionally sung by large groups of people.

The Dong people are well-known for this kind of music, which is popular mainly in Liping, Rongjiang and Congjiang of southwestern China's Guizhou Province.

Lao Qiang [Shaanxi]

The folk tune Lao Qiang from northwest Shaanxi province will come to the stage in Zhangjiajie's international country music week next week.

The folk tune Lao Qiang from northwest Shaanxi province will come to the stage in Zhangjiajie's international country music week next week.

Many Chinese may have heard of Qin Qiang, but rarely have a chance to actually listen to it. Lao Qiang is even lesser known to outsiders. This folk music has a nearly two thousand year old history. Exclusive to a small area in Shaanxi, reportedly now only some 20 singers can sing such songs.

In 2006, a handful of senior Lao Qiang masters have been invited by famous director Lin Zhaohua into his drama "Bailuyuan" or "White Deer Plain" that features this time-honored folk music.

Hanmijin [Yunnan]

Hanmijin, which means "baby girl" in the language of the Nakhi ethic group, is also the name of a music group consisting of six multi-talented young girls from Lijiang, Yunnan Province.

Hanmijin, which means "baby girl" in the language of the Nakhi ethic group, is also the name of a music group consisting of six multi-talented young girls from Lijiang, Yunnan Province.

Hanmijin, whose music is reminiscent of a tranquil countryside, aims to carry on local folk songs that have been passed down from generation to generation.

The group won second prize at a national folk music singing competition last year.