Pipa

About the Sound and Character

The sound of the pipa is bright, pearly, crisp, and blindingly fast. Using special artificial plectrum picks attached to the fingers, the musician can produce stunning tremolos mimicking spring rain hitting a roof or galloping cavalry.

Structure and Features

The pipa features a pear-shaped body carved from a solid piece of light wood, with a paulownia soundboard. Its curved neck and soundboard hold numerous high wooden frets (up to 30), enabling microtonal harmonies.

Genres

• Chinese academic solo music (Wuqu and Wenqu repertoire)
• Traditional folk instrument ensembles
• Modern experimental music and epic cinema