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Which instruments are used for military scenes in Peking opera?

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In Peking opera (jingxi), military scenes are characterized by a specific ensemble of instruments used to accompany the dramatic action. These scenes feature:

  • Barrel drums with tacked heads, known as gu.1
  • Double-reed instruments with a conical bore and bell, known as suona.1
  • Cymbals (bo).1
  • Large flat gongs.1

These instruments work together to provide the rhythmic intensity and sonic atmosphere required for the acrobatic combats and dramatic tension typical of military sequences in the opera.1