Resources
Shanxi School


    The Shanxi area also known as the “Qin” area is the birth place of Chinese
    guzheng.  However, guzheng music almost can’t be found in this area before
    1950s.  The only place in this area that still has some guzheng music is the
    Yulin area.  Zheng music in Yulin area has more than 300 years of history.  
    However, since Yulin area is far in the country side with limited
    communication to the outside world, the zheng techniques used remain
    traditional.  There is little vibration techniques with the left hand and on the
    right hand, only the thumb and the index finger are used to pluck.  


    In the 1950s, guzheng masters such as Cao Zheng, Guo Zhicheng, and
    Wang Xingwu started a “Revival of Qin Muic” movement.  Many scholars and
    musicians participated and composed numerous “Qin” flavored guzheng
    music pieces based on Shanxi drama music, Yulin guzheng music and
    Shanxi drum music.  New playing techniques are created along with this new
    music.


    Shanxi Guzheng Music is very unique.  First of all, the temperament of
    Shanxi Guzheng music is different from the "twelve average temperament".  
    4(fa) and 7(si) are noted for their instability.  In “Huanyin” (Happy Tune), 4
    and 7 are played regularly; in “Kuyin” (Sad Tune), 4 is played closer to a
    sharp “fa”, while 7 is played closer to a lower “si”.  When play Shanxi
    Guzheng Music, the player has to figure out which part is Huanyin and which
    part is Kuyin in order to play the music correctly.  


    The Shanxi Guzheng Music is often sad in tune with strong emotion.  
    Famous pieces include “Qin’s Mulberry Song”, “Drum Music of Xiang
    Mountain”, and “Tears of Jiang Lady.”  Great Shanxi Guzheng Musicians are
    Zhou YenJia and Qu Yun.  
Sound of China
Guzheng Music Promotion Center