"Water Ballads" is a traditional art born in Zhongshan city, in South China's Guangdong Provicne. It has a long tradition, and has enjoyed popularity since the end of the Ming Dynasty some 400 years ago. It tells the story of the happiness and sadness of local people who mainly make their living by fishing. Last year, Xianshui Song, or Sea Songs, was selected for the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Let's take a look at the first Water Ballads Competition in Zhongshan.

"Water ballads" comprises abundant categories, such as songs relating to the sea, river or boats. But during the competition, competitors do NOT need to go to the water. That's because all kinds of songs have landed on the stage.

Jin Shu brings Gaotang Song a traditional ballad sung at weddings.

Jin said, "We are born in the town of water ballads, and we have the responsibility to inherit it and carry it forward."

Many of the competitors are trying to reform the traditional art. And also add some brand new ideas. Some of them perform the songs in Mandarin instead of Cantonese, and hope it will make the art more popular.

The contestants are from all around Guangdong province. They are scheduled to perform more than ten kinds of water ballads.