XI'AN, May 20 -- Wen Shilong, a college English teacher from the northwestern Chinese city of Yan'an, has become something of a celebrity for singing the local Shaanbei folk songs. Wen does this, not only with a silvery voice and unique charm but with English lyrics translated from regional dialects.

Many locals see the 57-year-old Wen as a devoted preserver of Shaanbei folk songs, an age-old genre that features powerful, usually high-pitched melodies. The songs are also characterized by lively rhythms and bold lyrics that portray the happiness and hardships of life on the loess plateau of Shaanxi Province.

Dropping in one of Wen's English courses at Yan'an Vocational and Technical College, one would often find the veteran teacher dressed in the traditional Tang suit, instructing his students to rehearse English versions of Shaanbei folk songs.

"The students are just crazy about the songs presented in a new form," he said.

Wen's repertoire now comprises more than 100 folk songs which he translates into English, including the famous revolutionary song "Nanniwan," based on the eponymous revolutionary site in Yan'an. It also includes the song "Wild Lily Flowers Blooming with Red Brilliance," which depicts the local natural landscape.

For Wen, there is no greater honor than to introduce his most cherished art to the younger generation and bring it onto the international stage with a creative twist.

"I just hope my translations can help more people know and love Shaanbei folk songs," he said.