Choir gives rural kids pluck to pursue dreams

When he decided to take on the project, Jin said he wanted it to be a long-term one. Music lessons for several months would not make a difference for the children and, in fact, would be detrimental, he said.

Jin has traveled from Beijing to Midu at least once a month for the past three years. "I never feel like this work is a burden," he said. "When you love what you do, and you have a clear plan for where you want to take the team, the hard parts feel meaningful."

His most rewarding moments come after performances. "When the kids take their bows, and the audience bursts into applause, that's the moment that makes everything worth it," he said.

"I firmly believe that artistic gift is fair to all children," Jin said. "The kids in Midu are no less talented; they just lack the proper guidance and opportunities to unlock their potential."

Jin's rigorous training methods were pivotal.