Description: The
xiao (pronounced "siao") is a notched flute aerophone and is carved
from bamboo hence its classification as a “bamboo instrument”. The name
“Shudi” is ancient name for the xiao. In the rain of Emperor Qianlong
[the fifth emperor of the Qing dynasty], the xiao was associated with
the royal courts and chamber music. In Fujian, China a much xiao
similar in length to the Japanese shakuhachi called the nan-xiao is
used in a local opera called "Nanyin" who is performed in quangzhuo.
The xiao is the predecessor of the Japanese shakuhachi and hocchiko and
the Korean Danso and tungso.
Details:
The xiao is played vertically from a 45 degree angle to the body when
sitting or standing, currently most have six or seven finger holes. The
xiao is tuned in a pentatonic scale currently its available in the keys
of G, D or F# although F# is a much less common key. The estimate
length of the xiao can range from 45cm, 48cm to 1.25 meters. The notch
for the xiao is either a “U” or “V” shape.
Dong-xiao: In Taiwan a type of xiao called "dong-xiao"
Qin-xiao: A much shorter length and narrow diameter flute called the qin-xiao is played to accompany the qin [zither].
Long-feng Xiao: This type of xiao is a double duct flute carved onto statues of dragons and serpents respectively.
Name: Xiao [pronounced "siao"] or dong-xiao.
Type: Notched > Aerophone.
Region: China > Far East Asia.
Specimens: I have a total of 3 xiao
Sources: Rene
Hugo Sanchez (on trip to china), one specimen;
the 2nd specimen, (from
China town in Vancouver B.C.).
The third xiao is from value-village (a
local Vancouver Thrift Store).