Instrument

Daguangxian

• 張貼日期:2006-01-12

This is also called the Datongxian.

It is a bass string instrument with a large sound box and a low register. The diameter is fifteen centimeters or more. The tube is like a small jug, so this increases the resonance. It is usually made of the Chinese parasol tree, but sometimes of the Chinese fir or Taiwan red cypress. The bridge is made of bamboo and the bottom is reinforced with strips of metal, which deepens the sound. The bridge can also be made of seashell, with a good effect, but the material must be chosen and tested carefully. There are two kinds of string – silk and steel. The steel strings produce a greater volume of sound, but the silk ones have softer tones. The body is called the “General’s Post,” and it is made of Phyllostachys aurea. The head is symmetrical, crooked like a human face. A bamboo body has better resonance than a wooden body. The Daguangsian has a unique register. Traditionally, it has been made from material from the Lintou trees on the seashores and river banks of Taiwan. The hardness and lightness of this material can make it sound like a human being crying. The older generation says that playing the Daguangxian’s〝ｈｍｇ－〞can produce a unique resonance, with a very Taiwanese ambience. Now there are very few Lintou trees, and there is a particular shortage of old, large-diameter ones. Thus, the Daguangxian is mostly made of wood or bamboo now.

It’s an instrument that is particular to Taiwan. Its tone is somewhat gloomy, and it is good for expressing sad feelings. It is usually used for “crying tone” melodies and to play other tunes colored by tragedy.

It can also be used in non-Nanguan music.