PIAO Meaning and
Definition
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Piao, also known as piaozi, is a traditional Chinese musical instrument that belongs to the family of plucked instruments. It is a type of board zither with movable bridges and variable strings. The term "piao" is mainly used in Northern China, whereas "piaozi" is used in Southern China and other regions.
The piao consists of a rectangular wooden soundboard with a series of parallel strings stretched across it. The strings are made of metal or silk and can vary in number, usually ranging from 13 to 25. The soundboard serves as a resonator, amplifying the vibrations produced by plucking or strumming the strings.
One of the distinctive features of the piao is its movable bridges. These small wooden or bamboo pieces can slide along the length of the strings to adjust the pitch of each note, enabling the player to create different melodies and scales. The bridges can also be used to dampen certain strings to achieve specific tonal effects.
The piao is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum. It is commonly used in Chinese traditional music ensembles, both as a solo instrument and as an accompaniment to other instruments. The piao produces a rich, vibrant tone with a wide range of expressive capabilities.
In recent years, the piao has found its way into popular music and contemporary compositions, contributing to the preservation of traditional Chinese musical heritage while also showcasing its versatility in modern contexts.
Common Misspellings for PIAO
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