hulusi

The hulusi is a traditional Chinese wind instrument belonging to the free-reed family. Its name means gourd flute, reflecting the characteristic calabash gourd used as the wind chamber. The instrument is associated with Yunnan Province and the ethnic groups there, such as the Dai, Bai, and Yi, and has since become popular in broader Chinese folk music.

Construction and design: A hulusi typically comprises a gourd wind chest, a central bamboo or wooden melody pipe with finger holes, and one or two drone pipes that provide a continuous undertone. The drone pipes can be silenced or muted to change the overall sound. The melody pipe is usually fingered similarly to other simple flutes, while the drones add a sustained pitch that can be controlled by closing holes or by finger technique.

Playing technique and sound: The hulusi is played by blowing into a mouthpiece attached to the melody pipe, which contains a small reed to produce sound. The player covers and uncovers holes to articulate melodies, while the drone pipes generate a constant background pitch, creating a rich, warm timbre. The instrument is capable of melodic expressiveness with ornamentation and dynamic control.

Cultural context and use: The hulusi has a strong presence in traditional folk ensembles and regional performances in Yunnan and surrounding areas. In the 20th century, its design and playing tradition were standardized and disseminated more widely, leading to its prominent role in both traditional and contemporary Chinese music, including solo performances and ensemble works. It remains a popular instrument for education and cultural presentation.