Dizi (Flute)
The Di, or Di-tzu, is the traditional Chinese
bamboo flute. It has been suggested that the instrument originated in Asia Minor
or Central Asia, over 2000 years ago. It is a unique solo instrument and is
also used extensively in ensembles and orchestras. These flutes have 6 open
holes and a lovely bright sound. Often dizi players will carry around several
flutes for all the different keys. As only three keys can be played accurately
on traditional instruments, most players carry a chromatic set. It can have
a buzzing membrane over an extra tone hole to give the characteristic rattle
effect, although some compositions call for this to be omitted.
Suona
The suona is an ancient reed instrument with a conical metal
bell, like an oboe, and is also called the 'la ba' or 'da ban di'. It has a
nasal penetrating sound and comes in various sizes. The body is made of wood
with a metal bell at one end and a straw double-reed at the other. The suona
is used in orchestral ensembles as well as for solos, and has a big bright full
sound.
Keyed Suona 
The suona is a traditional Chinese reed instrument which
is similar to an oboe or a shawm. This suona has keys which use the Modern System
to play chromatically. Thus, the instrument retains its traditional sound while
being much easier for 20th century musicians to play. It's an attractive instrument
with a lovely, lively sound. It is 17" long, and includes a case.
Sheng (Pan Pipe)
This is one of the oldest varieties of Chinese instruments, and
consista of a bundle of between 17 to 36 pipes seated on a small wind chamber.
A free brass reed is placed in the root of the instrument. Coming in soprano,
alto, and tenor models, they have a great clarity of tone, and compensate for
the lack of brass in tutti orchestration.
