The local government has helped to set up research centers to keep the traditional art forms alive. Unfortunately, Gong adds that few young people are willing to learn folk songs and tiaocai dance since most of them are working in big cities now.

"Folk music is a timeless phenomenon. It starts from one place, travels to more places and evolves with different cultural influences. I want more people to enjoy and learn Chinese folk music," says Gong, who plans to travel to more places to collect folk songs.

After her trips to Midu and Nanjian, Gong returned to her home in Dali to review the video and audio materials she collected.

She has decided to introduce her recent experiences into the online singing course she launched during the coronavirus outbreak for young Chinese students and music lovers.