Bianzhong

Strike a tiered set of bronze bells with mallets, each bell giving two pitches depending on where it is hit, to play melodies.

Heritage note

Part of the living heritage of China. Some forms of this practice carry deep meaning for the communities who keep it; here we describe the play and the craft only, with respect for its roots.

Origins

A living tradition passed from person to person; it is not tied to a single dated origin. It belongs to the cultural world of China.