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Which instruments commonly accompany Chinese storytelling performances?
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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 Chinese storytelling (shuoshu), performances may be delivered unaccompanied, but they are most commonly supported by a rhythmic clapper.1
Narrators frequently incorporate additional instruments to enhance the performance:
- Percussion: A drum (dagu) is often used, and the narrator typically plays both the drum and the clappers themselves.1
- String Instruments: It is common to include a long-necked lute, such as the three-stringed sanxian, or a short-necked lute, such as the four-stringed pipa. The larger variety of the sanxian is particularly noted for accompanying epic singing.12
- Ensembles: For some storytelling traditions, accompaniment may be provided by a string ensemble similar to those found in Chinese opera.1
While these are traditional staples, storytelling performances are often eclectically creative and may incorporate various other instruments, including Chinese fiddles, percussion, or even Western instruments like the saxophone.1