China
Chinese

Wood, metal, bamboo, 
ca. 20th century
Length: 19 in, Diameter: 3.5 in, Mouthpiece length: 2.75 in
Aerophone – Free Aerophones – Free Reeds

Considered a “free-reed” instrument, the existence of the Sheng has been traced back over 3,000 years to China. It is the precursor to the accordion, harmonica, concertina and reed organ. The sound is produced by blowing into a wind chamber. This Sheng has 17 pipes/tubes. When the holes on the pipes are open, air escapes through the tube pipes over a free reed and vibrates to create the sound. Traditionally, it was used in both court and folk music in China. Today, it has become a standard instrument in modern Chinese orchestras.