Q&A for How to Play the Guzheng (Chinese Zither)

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If you naturally have long nails, do you need to have fake ones?

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Yes. Using your own nails to pluck the strings of the guzheng can cause harm to them, as they will wear over time. Using the fake ones is mandatory.

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Where would be best to buy the guzheng?

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There are a lot of stores that sell the guzheng. You can search for Chinese instrument stores in your area. Most of these stores will definitely have the guzheng. You can also find a teacher to buy one from.

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Why does the guzheng have 22 strings?

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The guzheng actually has 21 strings. They are of a different width and produce different tones.

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How do you know if it is a guzheng or koto?

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Community Answer

A koto will usually have 13 strings, while a guzheng has 21 strings. All strings of the koto are of approximately the same thickness, while the strings of the guzheng have different thicknesses.

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Is it considered an autoharp?

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An autoharp isn't the same as a guzheng. A guzheng is usually played sitting down, and players don't hold the guzheng. An autoharp is played standing up, with players holding it.

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Where can you find some good songs for beginners?

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You can get guzheng music books from most Chinese music instrument shops. There are also some great songs online, and a simple online search can yield many results.

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Are the artificial nails necessary?

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Community Answer

Yes, guzheng players use artificial nails to pluck the strings. Additionally, many techniques, such as the finger shake, require using the artificial nails.

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What websites are recommended for learning the guzheng?

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Community Answer

There are many websites and popular video streaming platforms that have guzheng tutorials and covers. You can also find a lot of sheet music by searching online.

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What's the meaning of the small triangle above a note?

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Community Answer

A small triangle without a bottom side right on top of the note means you should play the note with your fourth (i.e. ring) finger. If a triangle comes after the note, this notation indicates that you should press down on the corresponding string after playing it, rising quickly in a sharp motion.

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