![]() ![]() The instrument was then revised again in 1986, making the instrument even easier to play. The first new-and-improved sanxian model was produced in 1980. In order to make performance easier, a metal support stand was also added. With the liberation of China, sanxian musicians began to alter various parts of the instrument, such as its shape, strings and bridge. Prior to reformation, the sanxian was typically used as an accompaniment to quyi (song), and was deemed incapable of playing significantly difficult pieces. Not unlike numerous other Chinese instruments, the sanxian was also reformed to cater to the needs of the Chinese orchestra. Nevertheless, it has been concluded that before the Liao Dynasty, the sanxian - alongside various other plucked string instruments - was referred to by the term pipa, qin hanzi or qin pipa. Different names and shapes would be used across varying provinces. The lack in information of this Chinese shamisen-lookalike seems to be due to the fact that, for a long while, the sanxian had no fixed name nor shape. ![]() The sanxian’s role in history is not accurately reflected through the limited historical material available to us today both scholars as well as musicians are unable to glean a completely reliable history of this Chinese instrument. True to its name, the instrument possesses san (three) xian (strings).Īlthough the history of the Chinese sanxian is rich, unfortunately, not much of it has been recorded. It was wildly popular when brought to Japan, resulting in the creation of the shamisen. One of China’s most traditional plucked string instruments, the Chinese sanxian (or xianzi) has been passed down over many generations. Sanxian - Chinese Plucked String Instrument
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |