Mao Zhiyuan works on a Sheng in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019. (Photos: Xinhua)

Mao Zhiyuan, 65, was born into a family with a long history in making Sheng, a traditional Chinese mouth-blown reed-pipe instrument.

As the fifth generation of a Sheng-making family, Mao started to learn the craft at age 16.

After years of hardwork, Mao improved the craft, giving the ancient instrument wider vocal ranges and changeable pitches.

Mao's craftsmanship is recognized as a provincial intangible cultural heritage in Henan. He is also passing the torch to his son and hopes this traditional craft will be inherited by future generations.

Mao Zhiyuan picks suitable bamboo sticks to make Sheng in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019.

Mao Zhiyuan assembles components of Sheng in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019.

Mao Zhiyuan plays Sheng in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019.

Mao Zhiyuan shows Sheng to his granddaughter in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019.

Mao Zhiyuan (L) guides his son Mao Guoyong in making Sheng in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 21, 2019.