Chasing Muqam – Episode 1: A mysterious invite

Editor's note: Chasing Muqam is a CGTN Digital documentary series that explores the legacy of Muqam, a traditional Uygur art form that blends song, music and dance. Nadim Diab travels across Xinjiang to meet the people carrying this tradition forward – listening, learning, and ultimately attempting to capture the soul of Muqam in a performance.

CGTN's Nadim Diab is no stranger to challenges in China. In Beijing, he trained 100 days in Jingju, or Peking Opera. In Kashi, he spent a week soaking up the spirit – and flavors – of the city to distill it in a cup of coffee. Now, he's back in Xinjiang for a new mission. The only clue he has is a cryptic letter, hinting at a performing art. What exactly is he walking into? Who sent the invitation? And how will he track them down? The search begins in Urumqi.