1. Di  Di: a transverse bam boo flute with six finger holes, a month hole, and other hole covered by a thin membrane.  History: was introduced into China from Central Asia (Xi Yu) early in the Han dynasty.  Function Ancient time: the di was used in military ensembles. It has been included in the ritual ensembles for many centuries. Today: popular as a solo instrument in from folk ballads to regional ensembles and operas. Types: Bandi: shorter, popular folk instrument Qidi: more common in operatic performance  Famous Piece: Suzhou Scenery

2. Xiao  Xiao: an end-blow bamboo flute having five finger holes in the front, one finger hole in the back, and one blowing hole on the top.  History: emerged during Zhou dynasty (11th to 3 rd century BC).  Function Performed in ensemble music and in solo style. The xiao is found in all sizhu ensembles. Types: Zizhu xiao: thin, long-internodal xiao. Dong xiao (open xiao): short, broad xiao Yuping xiao: a slender and often handsomely decorated flute  Famous Piece: Su Wu Herding Sheep

3. Sheng  Sheng: a free-reed mouth organ consisting of a circle of bamboo pipes, each with a reed fitted on its lower end, inserted into a copper, wood or gourd base.  History: emerged during Zhou dynasty (11th to 3 rd century BC).  Function An important instrument in Jiannan Sizhu and very widely used in northern Chuida ensembles  Famous Piece: Fan Huen Xiang

4. Sona  Sona: a double-reed conical instrument, made of a wooden tube with a reed attached at one end and a copper bell skirt on the other end..  History: introduced from Central Asia during Ming Dynasty.  Function In regional ensembles, folk dances, processionals (weddings and funerals), and traditional opera accompaniment.  Famous Piece: Busy Greeting within the Birds