Classical Chinese Instrumental Music to Relax and Unwind

This article is a collaborative effort, crafted and edited by a team of dedicated professionals.

Contributors: Andranick Tanguiane, Fred Lerdahl,

Contents

Looking for some classical Chinese instrumental music to help you relax and unwind? Check out our top picks!

Introduction

There is something very special about classical Chinese instrumental music. Perhaps it is the centuries of history and tradition behind it, or the fact that it has been passed down through the generations by master musicians. Whatever the reason, this type of music has a calming, relaxing effect that is perfect for unwinding at the end of a long day.

There are many different types of classical Chinese instruments, each with its own unique sound. The most popular ones include the erhu (a two-stringed bowed instrument), the guzheng (a plucked zither), and the pipa (a four-stringed lute). Classical Chinese music often features a combination of these instruments, along with others such as the dizi (a flute) and yangqin (a hammered dulcimer).

If you are looking for some classical Chinese instrumental music to help you relax and unwind, here are 10 of our favorite pieces:

1. “erhuang” by Liu Tianhua
2. “guzheng solo in gong mode” by Zheng Qinying
3. “pipa solo in yu mode” by Li Yao
4. “lustre of autumn moon” by Wang Guotong
5. “spring watersloeep” by Wang Guotong
6. “plum blossoms in snow” by Zhao Jiping
7. “butterfly lovers” by He Zhanhao & Chen Gang
8. “moon over Great Wall” by Zhao Jiping
9. “silk road fantasy” by Zhao Jiping
10. “the last night on earth” by Shu de lin

The Different Types of Classical Chinese Instrumental Music

Classical Chinese instrumental music can be broadly divided into four categories: zither, flute, string, and percussion. Each type of music has its own unique character and charm. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the different types of classical Chinese instrumental music and their benefits.

The Guqin

The Guqin, also known as the Seven-String Qin or Seven-Stringed Zither, is a plucked string instrument with a history of over 3,000 years. It has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Guqin music is characterized by its mellow and elegant sound, and it is often used to create a feeling of calm and relaxation.

The Pipa

The pipa is a four-stringed Chinese lute with a pear-shaped body. It is one of the most popular and well-known Chinese instruments, and has been played for over two thousand years. The pipa is often used in solo and ensemble performances, as well as in traditional Chinese opera.

The pipa is held vertically on the lap, and the strings are plucked with the right hand while the left hand stops the strings to create different pitches. The instrument can be played with a wide range of techniques, including tremolo, glissando, and vibrato. The sound of the pipa is both beautiful and haunting, and it is a favorite among both Chinese and Western classical music fans.

The Erhu

The erhu is a two-stringed bowed musical instrument, more specifically a spike fiddle, which may also be referred to as a “southern fiddle”. It is sometimes known in the Western world as the “Chinese violin” or a “Chinese two-stringed fiddle”. Though the instrument has been known in China for over a thousand years, it is only in the last century or so that it has become widely known outside of China.

The Erhu consists of a long vertical stick-like neck, at the top of which are two large tuning pegs, and a small resonator body (sound box) which is covered with python skin on the front (playing) side. The instrument is held upright between the knees of the seated player like a cello, with the left hand fingers stop-playing on the strings. The erhu has some similarity to both western violin and viola in playing technique and overall tone quality, though its music is generally written in pentatonic scale.

The Benefits of Classical Chinese Instrumental Music

Classical Chinese instrumental music has been shown to have a number of benefits, including reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality. This type of music is also said to boost cognitive performance and increase creativity. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health, consider adding some classical Chinese instrumental music to your daily routine.

Relaxation

There are many benefits to listening to classical Chinese instrumental music, but one of the most important is relaxation. The slow, soothing melodies and calming rhythms can help to ease tension and stress, and can provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Listening to classical Chinese music can also help to improve sleep quality and quantity, as well as reducing anxiety and promoting overall calm.

Improved Sleep Quality

If you’ve ever been kept awake by stress or anxiety, you know how important a good night’s sleep is. But did you know that classical Chinese instrumental music can actually help improve your sleep quality?

Studies have shown that classical music can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, as well as improve the quality of your sleep. In one study, participants who listened to 45 minutes of classical Chinese instrumental music before bed fell asleep faster and slept more soundly than those who didn’t listen to any music.

So if you’re having trouble sleeping, try listening to some classical Chinese instrumental music before bed. It just might help you get the rest you need!

Reduced Stress Levels

There are many benefits to listening to classical Chinese instrumental music, including reducing stress levels. The music is typically slower and more relaxing than other genres, which can help to calm the mind and body. In addition, the melodies and harmonies of classical Chinese instrumental music are often complex and beautiful, providing a mental distraction from stressful thoughts and feelings. Listening to classical Chinese instrumental music can also be a form of meditation, helping to clear the mind and promote inner peace.

Where to Find Classical Chinese Instrumental Music

If you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, you can’t go wrong with classical Chinese instrumental music. This type of music is often meditative and calming, making it the perfect way to wind down after a long day. You can find classical Chinese instrumental music in a variety of places. Here are a few of the best places to look.

Online Streaming Services

There are many online streaming services that offer classical Chinese instrumental music to relax and unwind. Some of these services are free, while others require a subscription.

Free Options:

-iTunes Radio: Apple’s iTunes Radio offers a wide variety of stations, including a Classical Chinese station. To access iTunes Radio, open the Music app on your iOS device and tap on the Radio tab.
-Pandora Radio: Pandora Radio is a popular streaming service that offers a Classical Chinese station. To create a station, simply enter your favorite artist or song into the search bar and Pandora will create a station based on your selection.
-Slacker Radio: Slacker Radio also offers a Classical Chinese station that can be accessed for free. To create a station, simply search for “Classical Chinese” in the Slacker Radio app or website.

Paid Options:

– Spotify: Spotify is a popular streaming service that offers a wide variety of music, including classical Chinese instrumental music. A subscription is required to use Spotify. Prices start at $9.99 per month.
– Rdio: Rdio is another streaming service that offers classical Chinese instrumental music. A subscription is required to use Rdio. Prices start at $9.99 per month

YouTube

YouTube has a great selection of classical Chinese instrumental music to choose from. If you’re looking for something to relax and unwind to, this is a great option. You can find everything from traditional Chinese music to modern arrangements of popular songs. There are also a number of channels that specialize in classical Chinese music, so you can find a wide variety of options to choose from.

Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed this collection of classical Chinese instrumental music. While the pieces are relaxing and calming, they also have a certain energy and vibrancy that makes them perfect for unwinding at the end of a long day. Whether you’re looking to relax, destress, or just enjoy some beautiful music, we hope this playlist has served its purpose. Thank you for listening!

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