As many of you probably know, there are many different Chinese instruments. However, do you know all the names and history of each instrument? Don’t worry because after this article, you will be surprised as to how much you have learned about Chinese instruments.
First, let me introduce you to the Chinese two-stringed fiddle also known as 胡琴/二胡. 胡琴 is very similar to the violin. This instrument came from western and northern China (places such as Mongolia and Tibet) and the people there were called 胡人. Therefore, the 二胡/胡琴 were most likely named after the people of the north and west. Next, we have the 琵琶. Similar to the 胡琴, the 琵琶 (Chinese lute) was also an instrument from the north and west of China. The 琵琶, however, has a different design from the 胡琴. The 琵琶 is a four-stringed instrument while the 胡琴 only has two-strings. Now, we have the 笛子 (Chinese flute). The 笛子 is made of bamboo and is a commonly used instrument during rituals. Last but not least is the 古筝 (. The 古筝 is invented by the Chinese themselves 3,000 years ago. But, it was only 2,000 years ago that the 古筝 started to become popular among the people. Of course, there are many more Chinese instruments besides the ones I listed above.
The four instruments I listed below are the most well-known ones. I hope you learned a lot more about Chinese instruments after reading this.
If you want to find out more about Chinese instruments, go to: http://www.chinawhisper.com/top-10-chinese-musical-instruments/
Wow, these instruments look extremely beautiful. The Chinese two-stringed fiddle looks extremely fun to play. It’s not surprising that most of these instruments are made of bamboo, since that’s commonly found in China. The Chinese flute also looks extremely cool! Great article!
Amazing article! I have seen only a few of the instruments. Although I’ve seen these instruments and heard them, I didn’t know their names, history, or purpose. I think its soo cool how detailed the instruments are. Some of them sound very similar to other instruments people commonly know such as the violin and flute. These instruments can be used for rituals, traditions, or for fun. These instruments clearly portray the Chinese culture.
Super cool article! I had no idea that there were so many different traditional Chinese instruments. I’ve played the guqin before and my mum has tried teaching it to me before but I found it to be super difficult. I’ve seen people play some of these instruments such as the 笛子 (Chinese flute) and I think it’s so beautiful and contrasts greatly to the western C flute that I play.
Great article, Sabrina! I am familiar with these instruments largely because of the music radiating throughout Chinese restaurants. I fell as if Chinese music is in a world of its own. There is a natural elegance about these instruments that sets them apart! I love listening to classical songs and these instruments will always have a place in my ears! Keep up the great work!
I love Chinese instruments! the sound is beautiful and it has own feeling in it. I have learned Chinese instruments before but just for one year of 古筝. Love your article!