Sheng (Chinese mouth organ)

Sheng is one of the oldest Chinese musical instruments. The instrument existed as far back as 3,000 years ago. By virtue of its construction, this is the only unique Chinese musical instrument in the Chinese orchestra capable of playing up to six notes simultaneously. It is therefore commonly called as the "Chinese mouth organ" by western people.

Sheng consists of 13-17 bamboo pipes with different lengths that are mounted together onto a base. Each bamboo pipe has a free reed made of brass. Music is produced by blowing and sucking the air through a metal tube connected to the base. From the base the air then rushes through the other pipes. A player determines the notes to play by allowing the air to rush through selected pipes while pressing on selected keys near the base. By covering two or more holes on various pipes, chords can be played.

Its warm mellow sound expresses lyrical melodies well, while its ability to play chords makes it a highly prized accompaniment instrument.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Sheng
• Chinese
• mouth
• organ
• flute
• bamboo

[tiokiko64]

Hi Dave. 3.000 years ago... Very interesting this instrument, but i think that it`s a little difficult to play. I like its sound :) *****

[chuckadave]

I would say it's very difficult to play.

I sticking to chucking.

Thanks for your comment

[dodo23762]

Beautiful music !

[chuckadave]

Really relaxing.

There was a few old people falling asleep on the bench next to me.

Thank for your comment

[annamedina23]

Wow that was really beautiful! You sure are brave to be able to play in a place where people come and walk around. It truly is amazing! I would love to be able to play the sheng! And play it to my friends and let them experience this! ｡◕‿◕｡

[chuckadave]

That was not me playing,though I wish I could play.

Yes it is beautiful and relaxing

[kenjibeast]

What a lovely performance!

[PaganWarDrummer]

All I can say is damn. And that I want one. Five stars, friend.

[simengpippo]

I really want to know the name of this music...

[TheWalkingKillers]

chinnooo cudeeirooo!

[lifesaver173]

My dolls make the same notes as the sheng.

[DKingOf514]

anyone knows the name of that traditional song played during chinese weddings by a band of people composed of sheng, chinese trumpet and various other traditional instruments?

[ChaoBreeder051491]

This has the most beautiful sound of any instrument I have EVER heard!!!! EVER!!!!!

[ChaoBreeder051491]

Oh my God....the majority of people are missing out! I mean....why do all the good videos have the least amount of comments??

[lisa5252]

So beautiful - thanks for sharing :)

[hurkie4]

man, you have a cd? i will buy it, this is great.

soo relaxing

[hurkie4]

i love it, this music calms you down. (finding your ying and yang xD)

[cassheng]

Tis is lovely. i miss UK.