Violin 'variations' in the village
It's about how smart you could tune the instruments to keep up with the change
Editor's note: Every three violins in the world come from Donggaocun town, in Beijing's suburban Pinggu district. Their violins have been exported to more than 30 countries and regions, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the world's total violin production. The current international market conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic have gradually changed the industry in the village. This violin production hub is facing unprecedented challenges. With the resumption of production of small and medium-sized enterprises in China, the "violin village" has embarked on a new journey.
Located in the Pinggu district of Beijing, Donggaocun town has a 30-year history of violin manufacturing. In 2009, the town's violin production reached 200,000, and they are sold to more than 30 countries and regions on four continents including Europe, Asia, America and Oceania, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the world's total violin production. The product line has expanded from the single violin production to a series of musical instruments such as erhu, bass and guitar. In 2009, Donggaocun town was recognized as "China's Violin Industry Base" by China National Light Industry Council and China Musical Instrument Association.