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." |