Xiao

The Xiao (pronounced /ʃaʊ/) is a traditional Chinese vertical end-blown flute, crafted from dark bamboo and cherished for its soft, gentle sound. The Xiao, often also called dongxiao, is one of the oldest wind instruments in China, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). It is used in a variety of Chinese music genres, including classical, folk, and ceremonial music. Known for its elegance, the Xiao produces a sweet, mellow tone that is often compared to the call of the Phoenix, the mythical bird symbolizing peace and beauty in Chinese folklore.

History of the Xiao

The Xiao has a deep history rooted in Chinese culture. Initially called Qiangdi, it originated with the Qiang people of Southwest China during the Han Dynasty. By the 1st century BCE, it had spread to the Yellow River region, gaining popularity throughout China. The Xiao’s form evolved significantly over time, and during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), it came to be distinguished from other flutes like the paixiao (panpipes). The term dongxiao emerged to differentiate the Xiao from other end-blown instruments that lacked finger holes.

Historically, the Xiao was not just a musical instrument but also a symbol of refinement and scholarly elegance. Its sound was thought to evoke serenity and contemplation, making it particularly favored by Chinese scholars and poets. In modern times, Guizhou province has been a focal point for Xiao culture, especially with the promotion of local flute production by Yuping Flute Products.

Anatomy of the Xiao

The Xiao is typically crafted from dark bamboo, often called “purple bamboo” due to its color. It has a simple yet elegant structure:
– The flute is open at the bottom and closed at the top, where the player blows into it.
– The top is sealed by a natural bamboo node, with a blowing hole at the top edge.
– It usually has six to eight finger holes, arranged on the front, and sometimes additional tuning holes.
– The bamboo is often untreated externally, preserving its natural form, which contributes to its unique timbre and tonal qualities.

How to Play the Xiao

The Xiao is known for its characteristic mellow tone, which is softer compared to the dizi, the side-blown bamboo flute of China. To play the Xiao, the player stands or sits upright and holds the flute vertically in front of their body. The lips form a small circular opening, and air is blown across the edge of the flute’s top opening. The player uses both hands to cover the holes; the left thumb covers the single hole on the back while the other fingers cover the five or more holes on the front side. The player’s posture and breath control are essential to creating the distinct soft tone that the Xiao is famous for.

Fingering and Techniques

The Xiao produces a major scale, usually in F or G major, with a range of two octaves. Fingering charts are used to illustrate standard fingering techniques for different notes. Most Xiaos have eight finger holes, with five on the front and one on the back for the thumb. The other two holes are used for tuning and adjusting the timbre. Advanced techniques for playing the Xiao include pitch bending by changing the embouchure and employing various vibrato styles to enrich the melodic lines. Traditional pieces avoid accidentals to maintain pitch stability, with most Xiaos being specifically made for keys like F or G major.

Types of Xiao

• Beixiao (“Northern Xiao”): This is the most common variant, usually longer and made from purple bamboo. It has a U-shaped mouthpiece, and its tone is less thick compared to other types.
• Qin Xiao: A variant of the beixiao, specifically designed to accompany the guqin, a traditional Chinese zither. It is narrower and has a softer tone suitable for accompanying the delicate sound of the qin.
• Nanxiao (“Southern Xiao”): Often called chiba, it is a shorter Xiao used in the Nanyin music of Fujian and Taiwan. This variant is characterized by the presence of bamboo root at its end, giving it a unique aesthetic and sound.

Related Instruments

The Xiao has several related instruments across East Asia. The Japanese shakuhachi and the Vietnamese tiêu are both descended from earlier forms of the Xiao. In Korea, related instruments include the tungso and danso, each adapted to suit their respective cultural music styles.