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ruan

[Chinese]

Chinese instrument similar to the mandolin. The Ruan was once known as the Qin Pipa (dating to the Qin dynasty between 221-207 BC) or Yue Qin (moon mandolin). The Ruan is now constructed as a family of Xiao Ruan (soprano ruan), Zhong Ruan (alto ruan), and Da Ruan (bass ruan), a development intended to increase its range and effectiveness in the modern Chinese orchestra. A plectrum is needed in performance. Mellow in tone quality, it is often seen in ensembles, and also as a solo instrument in recent years.

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Last Updated: 2014-02-10 19:08:30