Monks and nuns from the Guangxuan Art Troupe

The Guangxuan Art Troupe consists of monks and nuns from Tiantai Temple. The group comprises 23 violins, five violas, four cellos and two basses. They practice stringed instruments seven hours a day, when they're not chanting sutras or doing hard labor. The band has been together for four years and they believe in music's meditative powers.

The troupe currently has an 11-song repertoire, which includes string adaptations of such traditional Chinese melodies as Su Wu Muyang (Su Wu Tending Sheep), choral versions of Buddhist hymns and chants, and dances and recitals of Buddhist music.

The rehearsals are open to visitors, and the ensemble performs for lay Buddhists upon request.