Danso

The danso (also spelled tanso) is a Korean end-blown vertical bamboo flute traditionally used in Korean folk and chamber music. Originating from China in the 19th century, where it is called duanxiao, the danso has become a significant part of Korea’s traditional music culture. It is a relatively simple instrument, typically made of bamboo, although modern versions are also crafted from plastic. Known for its clear and soft tone, the danso is often used as both a solo instrument and in ensembles with other traditional instruments. The word “dan” in its name refers to its short length, distinguishing it as the shortest vertical wind instrument in Korean traditional music.

History of the Danso

The danso is believed to have been brought to Korea from China during the 19th century, during the reign of King Sunjo of the Joseon Dynasty (1567-1608). Originally, the danso was known in China as the duanxiao, which means “short xiao.” The name was adapted into Korean as “danso.” According to historical accounts, it is believed that a similar flute existed in China as early as 4,000 years ago, created to celebrate the merits of an ancient Chinese emperor. In Korea, the danso became a popular instrument used in court music, religious rituals, and folk celebrations. Initially crafted from bamboo, the instrument’s design remained largely unchanged until the 20th century, when plastic versions were introduced for use in educational settings.

Anatomy of the Danso

The danso is a notched, end-blown vertical flute that is typically made from bamboo. The instrument has a simple structure, but each part plays an important role in producing its characteristic sound:

• Material: The traditional danso is made from ojuk, a variety of dark bamboo known for its deep, resonant tone quality. Modern versions of the danso may also be made of plastic, which provides greater durability and ease of production.
• Length and Diameter: A high-quality danso is about 40-45 cm in length, with a slightly tapering bore. The bore diameter ranges from 0.6 inches at the blowing end to 0.4 inches at the distal end. The flute is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle.
• Finger Holes: The danso has four finger holes in the front and one thumb hole in the back. The thumb hole is positioned near the top of the instrument, closest to the blowing end. The finger holes are unevenly spaced, allowing the player to achieve a range of pitches across the instrument’s two-octave playing range.
• Notched Mouthpiece: The blowing end of the danso is notched in a U-shape, similar to a recorder. The notch allows the player to focus the airstream against the edge, producing the instrument’s signature clear, pure sound.

Types of Danso

There are different types of danso, each with unique characteristics and uses:

• Traditional Danso: The traditional danso is constructed from a single piece of bamboo, typically measuring between 40 and 45 cm. It is the most common type used in both folk and classical Korean music.
• Ojuk Danso (Black Bamboo Danso): This type is made from black bamboo, which is considered high quality for its deep resonant sound. It is often used in more formal or ceremonial settings due to its excellent tonal quality.
• Okdanso (Jade Danso): Made from jade, this variant is primarily decorative and used for ceremonial purposes. Jade dansos are prized for their aesthetic beauty as well as their musical qualities.
• Plastic Danso: A modern variant, the plastic danso is made for beginners and is commonly used in educational settings to teach students about traditional Korean music. It is more durable and easier to play, making it ideal for students.

How to Play the Danso

The danso is played vertically, with the player holding the instrument at a 45-degree angle or greater with both hands. The thumb of the left hand covers the back thumb hole, while the other fingers cover the four finger holes on the front. The player places the U-shaped notched end against their lower lip, directing a focused stream of air across the edge of the notch. The sound produced is determined by the length of the instrument’s tube, which is altered by covering or uncovering the finger holes.

The danso has a playing range of approximately two octaves, from low G to high G. The tone quality of the danso is described as clear and soft, making it well-suited for both solo performances and chamber music. Players can create microtones, wide vibrato, and subtle variations in pitch by manipulating their breath, embouchure, and finger placement. The danso’s unique tonal quality is best brought out with a delicate, nuanced playing style, and it pairs beautifully with other traditional Korean instruments in ensemble settings.

Danso in Korean Music and Culture

The danso has been a significant part of Korean music and culture, playing a central role in various musical forms. It is often used in pansori (narrative singing) and sanjo (a style of solo instrumental performance with rhythmic accompaniment). The instrument’s soft, expressive tones evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, which is a hallmark of Korean traditional music. The danso was especially prominent during the Yi Dynasty with the rise of indoor music, where its delicate sound was ideal for intimate performances. It was often paired with the saenghwang in duet performances, enhancing the emotional and dynamic range of traditional Korean music.