Chinese folk songs are well-loved by many of the foreign artists performing at the ongoing 2002 Nanning International Folk Song Festival in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
Lavinia Craciunescu, a middle-aged singer from Romania, said she got to know a Chinese folk song when she was very young, and several years ago, she learned two more.
"For me, both newly created Chinese folk songs and old ones are pleasant to listen to," said the Romanian singer.
Ken Kennet, who is leading an Australian art troupe called "Fame" at the festival, said before he came to China, he was only familiar with Peking Opera via TV programs.
"The Chinese folk songs I heard here are more melodious than Peking Opera," said Kennet.
Wong Yee Wan, a young performer with a Malaysian troupe called Persatuan Kwangsi Selangor, told reporters that she went to a Chinese school and took classes featuring traditional Chinese music.
"I am lucky to have an opportunity to listen to great Chinese folk songs with my own ears in this land where folk songs are diverse," said Wong.
Guangxi, which has a population of more than 46 million, is home to 28 ethnic groups, which are well-known for their love of singing and dancing.
The Nanning music festival, which opened last Friday, will close Tuesday.
(Xinhua News Agency November 25, 2002)
