Yan Xiaoyang, 68, from Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, spent over a decade establishing himself as a top violin maker.

During the 50th Annual Violin Society of America Convention and the 25th International Competition held in Indiana, US, from Nov 17 to 22, 2024, Yan won the award of Viola Artisanship, marking the highest honor achieved by Ningxia in such international events.

The event attracted 450 participants from over 40 countries and regions worldwide and showcased more than 1,000 instruments, including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses.