Yazheng

The Yazheng (轧筝) is a traditional Chinese bowed string instrument, known for its distinctive sound and deep roots in Chinese music history. Originating in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), it belongs to the Zhu family (筑族) of instruments and is a descendant of the ancient bowed instrument, the Zhu. The Yazheng is popular in several Chinese regions including Hebei, Henan, Fujian, Guangxi, and Jilin, where it is used for various musical styles and performances.

Regional Variations and History

The Yazheng’s history is well-documented, with references in ancient texts like the “Old Book of Tang – Music Records (旧唐书·音乐志),” which describes it being played with bamboo sticks. The Tang poet Jiao Ran (皎然) highlighted the instrument in his poem, “Observing Li Zhongcheng’s Two Beauties Singing Ya Zheng Song (观李中丞洪二美人唱轧筝歌).”

In the Song Dynasty, it was illustrated in Chen Yang’s “Book of Music (乐书)” and described as similar to the Zheng (筝) and Se (瑟) instruments. By the Qing Dynasty, its design remained stable but with an increased number of strings, reaching ten. Modern adaptations include using steel strings and incorporating techniques from other Chinese instruments.

Instrument Design

The Yazheng typically features a rectangular wooden resonant box made from materials like paulownia wood. It has between 7 and 13 strings, with each string supported by adjustable jujube wood bridges. The strings can be made of silk or steel, with the latter being more common in contemporary versions. The instrument’s size varies, with larger versions used in ensemble settings and smaller ones in more intimate performances. The Yazheng is traditionally played with bamboo sticks, but modern players may use a horsehair bow for a smoother sound.

Playing Techniques

The Yazheng is generally played while seated on the floor, though there are variations in playing styles such as sitting (坐奏) and standing (立奏). The player uses a bamboo stick or horsehair bow in the right hand to rub the strings while using the left hand to adjust the pitch by pressing on the strings. This allows for a rich variety of tones and expressive capabilities. The Yazheng produces a sound similar to that of a viola but with a raspier, more textured quality.

Regional Variations

Hebei and Henan

In Hebei and Henan provinces, the Yazheng is commonly known as “Ya Qin” (轧琴) and is used in local operas like Wu’an Pingdiao (武安平调). The instrument has ten strings, played with sorghum stalks rubbed with rosin for a gentle yet melodious tone.

Fujian

In Fujian’s Putian and Xianyou areas, the Yazheng is known as “Wen Zhen Qin” (文枕琴) or “Pillow Qin” (枕头琴). It is used in local music styles like “Wen Shi Yin” (文十音) and is characterized by its arch-shaped design with up to 11 strings. Performers hold the instrument with the left hand while using a bow with the right hand, producing a wide range of tones.

Guangxi

In Guangxi, the Yazheng is referred to as the “Seven-stringed Qin” (七弦琴) or “Wa Qin” (瓦琴). It has seven strings and is made with a half-round paulownia body. This version is popular in regional ensembles, offering a distinctive local sound.

Jilin Yanbian

In the Yanbian area of Jilin Province, the Yazheng, also called “Ya Zheng” (牙筝), is primarily used to accompany vocal performances, especially in traditional folk music.

Cultural Significance and Applications

The Yazheng is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, finding a place in both courtly and folk music traditions. Its ability to mimic various tonal qualities has made it a versatile instrument, used in everything from solo performances to opera accompaniment. The instrument has also found its way into modern adaptations, being featured in contemporary classical music and even film scores. Its influence extends beyond China, contributing to the development of similar instruments like the Korean Ajaeng.