Malao

Malao is a traditional Chinese musical instrument, primarily used in the performance of Chinese opera. It is a type of lute, characterized by its pear-shaped body and long neck, which is often adorned with frets. The malao typically has 21 strings, which are divided into two groups: the lower 12 strings are tuned in fifths, while the upper 9 strings are tuned in fourths. This unique tuning allows the instrument to produce a wide range of tones and melodic patterns.

The malao is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum, and it is often accompanied by other instruments such as the erhu, a two-stringed fiddle, and the guqin, a seven-stringed zither. The instrument is held horizontally across the player's lap, with the neck resting on the player's right knee. The left hand is used to press down on the strings to produce different notes, while the right hand plucks the strings to create the melody.

The malao has a rich history in Chinese culture, dating back over a thousand years. It has been used in various forms of Chinese opera, including Beijing Opera, Sichuan Opera, and Kunqu Opera. Each region has its own unique style of playing the malao, reflecting the diverse musical traditions of China. Today, the malao continues to be an important part of Chinese musical heritage, and it is often featured in performances of traditional Chinese opera.