How did shuoshu storytelling combine spoken narrative, singing, and instrumental accompaniment?

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Chinese music: 12 pitches of the lü — Chinese music Twelve pitches of Chinese music as produced by overblowing the lü, bamboo tuning pipes (starting for ease of comparison from Western C).

In the tradition of shuoshu storytelling, performers integrate spoken narrative, singing, and instrumental accompaniment to recount traditional tales. The narrative text is typically rhymed and delivered in a rhythmic, spoken style, though performances may also feature a purely sung approach or a blend of both.1

The integration of these elements is achieved through the following methods:

Rhythmic Foundation: While some storytellers perform unaccompanied, most utilize a clapper to maintain rhythm.1
Instrumental Support: Narrators often play a drum (dagu) and clappers themselves while relating the story. Additionally, a string instrument—such as a three-stringed sanxian or a four-stringed pipa—is commonly used to provide melodic depth.1
Ensemble Accompaniment: For more complex performances, additional accompaniment may be provided by a string ensemble similar to those found in Chinese opera.1

Because the text remains the core of the genre, performers rely on standard melodies to guide the delivery of their stories.1