Discover traditional Chinese Musical instruments, their sounds, playing techniques, and uses. Popular unique instruments include the Erhu, Pipa, Guzheng, and the Huqin. These 10 traditional instruments have been used for centuries and continue to influence modern music, from traditional Chinese compositions to contemporary pieces that blend Eastern and Western musical elements.
1. Erhu
The Erhu is classified as a two-stringed, bowed musical instrument, sometimes called the Chinese violin. It is played with a horsehair bow. The Erhu is known for its expressive, emotive tone that connects to a range of emotions. The Erhu is popular with musicians and composers due to the sound that it makes. It is frequently used in traditional Chinese music and opera performances. It has a deep sound and is capable of producing a range of tones. The Erhu is suitable for a range of musical genres. It is played on a solo basis, and when added with other instruments, it creates great pieces of music.
2. Pipa
The Pipa is a lute-like instrument which has four strings. It is widely used in orchestras as it has a natural sound. The player can create a range of melodies on the Pipa, making it a great instrument. The instrument has a bright and sharp sound and works well in a range of musical genres. The music that it produces varies depending on the technique of the player, making it a versatile instrument. The instrument has been used for over 2,000 years in China.
3. Guzheng
The guzheng is a traditional Chinese zither with 21 strings, though the number of strings can vary. It is played by plucking the strings with either a plectrum or by using the fingers. The guzheng produces a wide range of tones, from soft, melodic sounds to loud, dramatic notes. The sounds of the guzheng, highlight emotions, and is regularly featured in classic and folk music in China.
4. Dizi
The dizi is a transverse bamboo flute integral to Chinese folk music. It has six finger holes and often features a special membrane that gives it its distinctive, bright, and resonant sound. It's widely used in traditional and contemporary Chinese music, from solo performances to orchestral arrangements. The dizi is favoured for its ability to produce sweet, lyrical melodies and more lively, rhythmic passages.
5. Yangqin
The yangqin is a Chinese hammered dulcimer, similar to the zither, but played with small mallets. It has a rectangular shape with metal strings stretched across a wooden frame, and the mallets strike the strings to produce a bright, shimmering tone. The yangqin is often used in Chinese orchestras and has become a folk and modern Chinese music staple. The yangqin adds drama to rhythms, which is often appreciated by the musicians.
6. Sheng
The sheng is a versatile instrument and is very popular. It can produce a variety of sounds, making it ideal in a number of musical styles. It consists of pipes which are made from bamboo. To play this instrument, air is blown into the pipes to release a sound. Players can use a range of breathing techniques to make different sounds. It is a traditional Chinese mouth organ and is regularly used in Chinese opera as it adds texture to the music.
7. Suona
The Suona is a great instrument to use during festivals, weddings, and theatrical performances. This is due to the sound that it makes, which is energetic and exciting for the audience. The suona is a double-reed horn, often described as China's version of the oboe. The sound it produces is sometimes considered loud, although it works well within Chinese folk music.
8. Huqin
The huqin is a family of bowed string instruments that include the erhu, but there are several other variations, such as the jinghu (used in Beijing opera) and the zhonghu. These instruments typically have two strings and are played with a bow, producing a sound that ranges from delicate and high-pitched to rich and deep. The huqin is commonly used for solo and ensemble performances, as it works-well in folk and classical Chinese music.
9. Pipa (Bowed)
There are two types of pipa's, one which is plucked which features on this list, and this one which is the bowed version. They are both similar, although the bowed version produces a more delicate sound due to the way it is played. It is not used as regularly as the plucked version, but it still holds a significant place in Chinese music and traditoinal performances.
10. Ruan
The ruan is a Chinese string instrument that is sometimes referred to as a Chinese "lute." It has a round body and a fretted neck with four strings, which are plucked or strummed. The ruan is primarily used in Chinese opera and folk ensembles. It produces a warm, resonant sound and is often used to play both harmonic and melodic roles in traditional music. With its expressive tone, the ruan is perfect for playing both fast and slow pieces.
