Zhengni

The Guzheng (古筝), also known as zheng, Qin zheng (秦筝), and Han zheng (汉筝), is a traditional Chinese plucked string instrument with a history spanning over 2,500 years. Characterized by its rectangular wooden soundbox and movable bridges called zhengzhu (筝柱), the Guzheng produces a melodious sound that has made it a central instrument in Chinese music. Each string corresponds to a single note, arranged in a pentatonic scale. Over time, the Guzheng evolved from a 12-string instrument in the early periods to the modern 21-string version, which is most common today.

History

The origin of the Guzheng is subject to various accounts. Some legends suggest it was first invented by Meng Tian, a general of the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), with influences from the Se, an ancient zither. Another origin story describes it evolving from a bamboo-tube zither, later redesigned with wooden boards and movable bridges. A third account tells of a conflict over a 25-string se, leading to its division into two parts: a 12-string and a 13-string instrument, forming the early Guzheng.

Over centuries, the Guzheng continued to develop:

• Spring and Autumn Period: Documented presence in the state of Qin, used in primitive dance music.
• Han Dynasty: Transition from the five-string zhu to a 12-string plucked instrument.
• Tang Dynasty: Notable shift from a struck to a plucked string instrument, evolving to 13 strings.
• Modern Era: Now features 21 strings and incorporates materials like nylon-coated steel for enhanced volume and durability.

Instrument Design

The Guzheng features a wooden, flat, elongated body with a curved soundboard. The strings, anchored at both ends, are supported by movable bridges called yanzhu (雁柱). Its string count varies, with the most common versions having 16, 21, or 26 strings made of nylon-coated steel or silk. The strings are plucked to produce notes, and the movable bridges allow for tuning adjustments, making the instrument versatile in traditional and modern music.

Playing Techniques

The Guzheng is played using a variety of techniques that create its signature sound:

• Right Hand Techniques: Includes plucking with plectra (attached to the fingers) for inward and outward strokes, as well as advanced techniques like tremolo—rapid thumb movement to produce a shimmering sound.
• Left Hand Techniques: Used for adding pitch slides, vibrato, and other ornaments by pressing the strings to the left of the bridges, producing expressive variations.
• Fanyin (Harmonics): A technique where the string is plucked while tapping it to create a note in a higher octave.
• Lun (Tremolo): Borrowed from the Pipa, involves using all five fingers to produce a rapid plucking effect.

Traditional Guzheng Schools

The Guzheng is central to various regional music styles in China, with each school featuring unique playing techniques:

• Chaozhou Zheng: Known for its melodious style, part of “Chaozhou String Poetry,” with unique tuning systems.
• Henan Zheng: Characterized by its bright and robust sound, evolving from traditional “Da Diao Quzi.”
• Shandong Zheng: Vigorous and profound, featuring techniques like brisk plucking and large vibrato.
• Zhejiang Zheng: Known for its elegance, often played in traditional silk and bamboo music.
• Hakka Zheng: Features classical elegance, retaining ancient melodies in the Hakka regions of Guangdong and Fujian.
• Shaanxi Zheng: Based on “Qin Sheng” music, distinguished by its unique tonality and pitch variations.

Modern Innovations

With the progression of Chinese music, the Guzheng has seen several innovations:

• Butterfly Zheng: Invented in 1978 by He Baoquan and the Shanghai Music Academy, combining two Guzhengs into one for expanded tonal range.
• Xin Zheng: Developed by Hebei Fuhai Xin Zheng Company, it allows for complex modal play and incorporates both traditional and modern scales.

The Guzheng in Other Genres

The versatility of the Guzheng has allowed it to transcend traditional Chinese music. It has been used in jazz, rock, and contemporary compositions, with musicians like Wang Yong playing in rock bands and Zhang Yan performing with jazz bands. Modern composers, including Lou Harrison, have composed pieces for the Guzheng, blending Eastern and Western musical elements.