Sheng Information
Anything you might want to learn about my instrument!
Sheng Types
Sheng can broadly be categorized into 2 types. The modern keyed sheng (right) and the traditional round sheng (left). The traditional sheng is usually not fully chromatic (except the 37 reed) and is tuned to Pythagorean tuning. They typically come in the 17, 21, 24, 26 reed forms. Different areas of China have different fingerings and preferences. The modern keyed sheng is fully chromatic and amplified to be louder in an orchestra setting. The most popular is the chromatic soprano sheng, which comes in the configuration of 36, 38, 40, and 42 reed (one in the photo).
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There are also alto, bass and contrabass versions as well. They range in shape and fingering depending on the needs of the player. The most popular ones currently are the ZhaoJiaSheng versions because they unify the fingerings across all ranges. However, people most commonly play the "pai" sheng or the keyboard sheng (like literally a piano keyboard). I can play, but do not own any as they are expensive.
37 Reed Shanghai Sheng
The exception to the rule of traditional sheng is the 37 reed Shanghai model. It has 37 notes and is fully chromatic, with a range of G3 - G6. It can play traditional pieces and techniques by retaining fingering tradition, while modifying to add chromatic notes so it can play in any key.
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I am playing 月儿高 (the moon aloft) in the excerpt on the right. It showcases the harmony, solo, and some finger techniques.
Keyed Soprano Sheng
The soprano sheng is a modern take on the sheng. It was developed in the 1950s to fit the newly created Chinese orchestra genre. The pipes are all amplified, and it was made chromatic, and the fingering was standardized to make changing keys easier.
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Most have 36 notes, with a range from G3 - F#6. Most professional models have 38 notes, with a range that extends to G# 5. My particular one has 42 notes, which have a range up to C7. This preference is to play violin pieces and to be able to play all contemporary pieces. In fact, some of the most difficult sheng solos are "borrowed" from violin repertoire. Carmen Fantasy, Zigeunerweisen, etc...
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On the left, you can hear me play the solo "Spring in Eluanbi" （鹅銮鼻之春）. I arpegiate from my lowest G to the highest note at the time of 5:15. Notice the different sound quality and volume I can achieve with the modern sheng.
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Ask Questions
Get in touch!
Get in touch via email to discuss sheng. I am happy to share insights and tips. Looking forward to connecting with you!
Thinking about sheng?
I can help you get started!
While I do not sell sheng, I can help you get practice material and point you in the right direction. I am by no means an expert, but I cna point you in the right direction and give a lesson if you want.
Repair
I am still learning all the time, and sheng repair is not easy. If you are in the GTA and require some help, let me know.
Partnerships
Collaborate with me on sheng projects. Explore partnership opportunities for events, performances, and educational initiatives.