The Konghou
The Konghou is a member of the string instruments. It originates from from ancient China. There is no clear individual who made it, but the modern konghou appeared in the 20th century. The konghou can sometimes be referred to as shu konghou, wo konghou, and feng shou konghou.
The vertical konghou evolved from the ancient hunters’ bows, and is the oldest stringed musical instrument that was born along with the earliest civilizations. Even more ancient instruments can be counted on one’s fingers: stone flutes, bone flutes, ocarinas, and pottery flutes.
Modern konghou have double strings (36 strings per row), whereas the traditional konghou usually had only one row of strings, ranging from 13 to 29. Modern konghou also tend to have a phoenix head on the tuning peg, which is a symbol of traditional Chinese culture.
How do I play the instrument?
The konghou is held vertically, cradled in the arms, and played with both thumbs and index fingers from both sides at the same time.
Is there special equipment needed for the instrument?
No special equipment is needed to play the konghou.
How long does it take to learn?
It takes approximately 10-12 months to learn the konghou.
Are there any instruments similar to this one?
The western harp is similar to the konghou. Modern konghou have double strings (36 strings per row), while harps has single strings. Modern konghou have a tuning mechanism (similar to the guzheng), while harps do not. The soundbox of modern Konghou is pear-shaped (similar to the pipa), while harps are triangular.
Rock with a Star!
Let’s enjoy the sound of this instrument through this wonderful performance by Junzhi.
Cui Junzhi is a world-renowned konghou performer. She was originally a national first-class player in the Central National Orchestra. Cui Junzhi now resides in both the United States and China, teaching at San Jose State University, while also serving as a guest professor at the China Conservatory of Music and the Central Conservatory of Music, as well as the Artistic Director of the Chinese International Konghou Performance Troupe.
