Peng Zhongling teaches elders to play the hulusi (a wind instrument) at a community event. Courtesy of interviewee

Peng Zhongling teaches elders to play the hulusi (a wind instrument) at a community event. Courtesy of interviewee

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Lin Songtao

254238712@qq.com

THE ongoing “The Son of the Sun” exhibition on the Inca civilization at the Nanshan Museum, which includes approximately 200 artifacts from 14 Peruvian museums, has become popular with Shenzhen residents.

In addition to items of notable historical and artistic value, including ceramics, metalwork, paintings, textiles, and a mummy, the exhibition also highlights the rich musical culture of the Inca civilization, offering a unique auditory experience.

On the opening day of the exhibition, music filled the air as a crowd gathered around musician Peng Zhongling, who was dressed in traditional attire of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas and enthusiastically playing instruments from the Indigenous cultures of the Americas.

Musical discovery

Peng, who has devoted himself to Indigenous music for about six years, had limited access to musical instruments during his youth. “I just loved listening to music, especially tracks from Hong Kong and Taiwan, as well as themes from TV dramas and animated series,” he recalled.

After graduating from university, Peng discovered a passion for instruments. Moving to Shenzhen in 2011, he explored different job opportunities. “During a tough time in my life, music cheered me up,” he said.

Peng later taught himself to play the ocarina and, in 2017, began trying to play the Romanian pan flute. “The melodious sound of this instrument enchanted me. I subsequently became fascinated with Indigenous music — its history and culture — and decided to promote this musical treasure in my own way,” he said.

Despite his family’s opposition to pursuing a music career, Peng has remained steadfast. “Actually, I started promoting various music cultures in 2013 and began recording and sharing my pieces on social media from that time.”

Sharing music

Peng believes that introducing Indigenous music should reflect its inherent simplicity. “Indigenous tribal communities deeply respect and worship nature. The materials for their instruments come from the natural world. This practice of maintaining an authentic style allows Indigenous music to provide solace for the soul in our fast-paced lives,” he noted.

He said that the similarities between Indigenous and Chinese music, particularly the use of the pentatonic scale, make it easier for Chinese audiences to connect with Indigenous music, thereby attracting a wider listener base to this unique cultural heritage.

Peng has also engaged in musical exchanges with other Indigenous musicians, including attending performances by renowned Indigenous artist Alexandro Querevalú, who tours Shenzhen each year.

“I sometimes hold music sharing sessions with close friends and livestream on Douyin and WeChat daily. I also offer online and in-person classes. Additionally, I’ve formed a music group that rehearses weekly and performs occasionally,” he explained.

Established in 2022, the music group welcomes anyone interested in joining. “Currently, besides myself, the only regular member is Qiao Yin, a teacher specializing in education for exceptional children. She also plays instruments such as the ocarina and pan flute,” he said.

In his spare time, Peng also takes part in teaching musical instruments at community events and schools.

Musical connections

Peng has discovered that many people enjoy Indigenous music. After each performance, he often meets new friends. “This is my primary motivation to keep moving forward,” he said.

One particular interaction profoundly impacted him. After a show, an audience member requested an autograph and shared her story.

“She told me she suffers from bipolar disorder and struggles with emotional regulation. However, while listening to my music during the performance, she felt a sense of calm. Her emotions began to stabilize. She expressed that this music has strong healing properties. I am incredibly grateful that my music could help her,” he recounted.

Looking ahead, Peng hopes to continue sharing his passion for music. “Through our persistent efforts, we aim to inspire more people to appreciate this traditional music culture. In today’s chaotic society, we can discover beauty in life through music,” he said.