Acoustics of the Qin

Abstract

The qin (guqin, chi’in) is a seven-string zither with long roots that run deep into Chinese history. The instrument occupies a central place in Chinese musical culture, one that may be compared to that of the violin in Western music; both instruments are deemed to have attained some level of perfection. The qin’s history is intertwined with philosophy and folklore and its construction is replete with symbolism. While much has been written on the evolution, organology and playing practice of the qin, little has been published about its acoustics. This chapter explores the qin’s background and summarizes the few acoustical studies that have been published to date. Many questions remain, and prospects for future research are discussed.