Violin-maker orchestrates his dream of bringing music to all

In 2018, Chang moved his factory from Beijing to Baixiang, hoping to do something meaningful — both culturally and financially — for his hometown. At his two-story factory, which covers about 2,000 square meters, a wide variety of musical instruments can be seen.

"In the past, processing the wood required a lot of physical strength, but now we have basically switched to cutting machines, although other processes are still mostly done by hand," Chang said.

According to Chang, violin-making is an involved process that includes wood selection, board-scraping, sound post installation, sound control carving and the installation and adjustment of strings. "Making an instrument requires dozens of procedures, and each step can have an impact on the quality and sound," he said.

Apart from Chang, there are a dozen craftsmen working on various sizes and models of instruments. "Each elegant-looking instrument resembles a work of art, where aesthetics and craftsmanship blend seamlessly," he said.

In a varnishing booth in the factory, a worker surnamed Huang sprays a violin. "The spray I use is specifically made for violins. It is a special formula made with alcohol and plant resin, which is environmentally friendly and safe," Huang said, adding that Chang produced the spray after conducting research.

"He is strict with all aspects of instrument making," Huang said.

Chang's hometown Baixiang is an ancient county with a long history and rich cultural heritage. In 2010, a taoxun, or clay flute, dating back approximately 6,000 years ago was excavated from a Yangshao cultural site in Xiaoli village, according to the local government.