Resources
Henan School

    Henan guzheng music originated from Henan folk songs.  Folk musicians
    near Nanyang area often play guzheng while singing folk songs.  Heavily
    influenced by folk songs of Nanyang area, the Henan guzheng music also
    has two major types.  One is the “Ban” that’s similar to the “Da-Ban” of the
    Shangdong School.  Another type is the “Xiao-diao” or the folk music.  

    The characteristics of Henan guzheng music is its melodic lyric style.  Often
    a forth, fifth or sixth note is seen in the melody.  Musicians use “yo-yao”
    technique combining with slow “Huayin” and heavy vibrato to sustain the
    melody.  When the music is high, it stirs up your heart, when it’s sad, it
    makes you cry.

    The masters of Henan guzheng music include Cao Dongfu (well-known for
    his “Ban” music), Wang Xingwu, and Ren Qingzhi (well-known for his folk
    music).  Famous songs are “Climbing up the Stair”, “Going down stair”,
    “Celebrate the Lantern Festival”, and “Luo-yuan”.     
Sound of China
Guzheng Music Promotion Center