About Bianzhong
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What are Chinese Chime Bells?
Chinese Chime Bells are an ancient Chinese musical instrument consisting of a set of bronze bells, played melodically. They are also called Bianzhong. These sets of chime bells were used as polyphonic musical instruments and some of these bells have been dated at between 2,000 to 3,600 years old. They were hung in a wooden frame and struck with a mallet. Why are they so unique? Although tuned bells have been created and used for musical performances in many cultures, Bianzhong are unique among all other types of cast bells in several respects. They have a lens-shaped (rather than circular) section, the bell mouth has a distinctive "cutaway" profile, and the outer surfaces of the large bells feature 36 studs or bosses, symmetrically placed around the body in four groups of nine. |
This special shape gives Bianzhong bells the remarkable ability to produce two different musical tones, depending on where they are struck. The interval between these notes on each bell is either a major or minor third, equivalent to four or five notes on a piano. They are also known as “One bell, two sounds".
Bianzhong Chime Bells - Timeline
Around 2500 years ago (482BC)
Throughout history, Bianzhong Bells were used by the Imperial Royal family, during times of entertainment. |
The Discovery of 1978
The ancient Bianzhong bells within the Tomb of Marquis Yi , dated 433BC. |
Bianzhong Live Performances
Chinese Chime bells are used within Chinese musical and cultural performances both on a national and international basis. |
Our Services
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Contact Details:
Add: Stretford Mall, Chester Rd, Stretford, Manchester M32 9BD E: [email protected] T: (+44) 07818285757 |