LIVING LIFE IN FULL BLOOM

Since its establishment in 2009, the band's lineup has changed several times, mostly due to health or family reasons of its core members. Those who remain cherish every opportunity to practice and perform.

During every rehearsal and performance, Tian Yonghao carries his own accordion all by himself, despite it weighing 20 kg and him being 90 years old. He continues to take on the task, a responsibility he has cherished for many years.

In 2018, the band was invited to appear on "Avenue of Stars," a popular singing competition show on China Central Television, the national broadcaster. Inspired by the show's director, the band members decided to make their performance more lively by incorporating rock music elements and adding drums and bass to their instrumental lineup.

While performing the Chinese rock song "Life in Full Bloom" on stage this time, they donned sunglasses, silver chains, black leather jackets and red leather pants, showcasing not only their meticulously prepared performance but also a bold fashion statement.

After rising to fame, the band received numerous offers for commercial performances, but they declined. Instead, they perform for charitable causes around 20 times a year, bringing music and joy to the elderly in nursing homes and children in orphanages.

In 2011, the band performed at a school for the blind. As a children's song reached its climax, the visually impaired students stood up and sang along, filling the classroom with laughter.

"I never expected that beautiful music could not only bring joy to myself but also help others, and offer them happiness and hope for life," said Dong, adding that the experience inspired her to continue the effort.

In 2021, Dong joined a volunteer team focused on helping the elderly navigate technology-related challenges and providing anti-fraud services to them.

Inspired by the initiative, the band adapted a song telling the possible difficulties faced by seniors in the fast-paced society and how they can cope with them, hoping to inspire more elderly people. The song was turned into a music video, featuring Dong and other band members as the main characters.

Since June 2021, the members no longer need to move between different locations for rehearsals, as the authorities of Daguan Sub-district in Hangzhou have provided them with a dedicated venue, equipped with sound systems and lighting facilities.

Wang Xiaoyan, a staff member at the Daguan service center, said that ensuring a fulfilling retirement life for the elderly has been a focus for the sub-district and its communities. To date, the center has attracted 64 interest-based groups and 40 folk artists, enriching the lives of local residents, especially the elderly.

"We elderly people are not a group that passively waits for help," said Dong. "As the lyrics in our song go, 'We elders should assist one another in keeping pace with the times, even if our steps may be a bit slower.'"