Yueqin

previous instrument

previous

next instrument

next

The Yueqin, or moon lute, is a short-necked lute from China. Inside its circular body is a fixed, metal tongue. This rattles or buzzes when the yueqin is played and enhances the tone. The yueqin is used to accompany songs, and is popular in small opera ensembles.

Family
Strings
Pitch range
Two-and-a-half octaves.
Material
ooden body, with silk Strings.
Size
23 in (58 cm) long.
Origins
Short-necked lutes have been played in China since the 5th or 6th century. The yueqin developed from the Chinese ruan. The yueqin is also closely related to the Chinese qinqin.
Classification
Chordophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of strings.
And also...
The name yueqin divides into yue - meaning "moon" and qin - meaning "stringed instrument," so it is often known as the "moon guitar."

picture of Yueqin

other views