Is Suona Really So Different From Oboe? - Greatest Performance

Is Suona Really So Different From Oboe?

Is Suona Really So Different From Oboe?
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A Suona is a high pitch and loud musical instrument. It looks similar to a trumpet or Oboe. Traditionally, it is made with a wooden base and/or brass body. Contemporary pieces are made similar to the European Oboe. This instrument is used outdoors, is a mainstay during military exercises and traditional folk music; especially those originating in Shandong and Henan.

Cut from the Same Reed
A Suona is more Oboe-like than trumpet-like. The sound is also very similar. They are both made from the top portion of a cane stalk. The former makes use of the inner part while the latter uses the outer part. Most experts, the author included, opine that a Suona is harder to make, and requires more precision when crafting.

Traditional vs Modern Use
Most experts say that a Suona is harder to play. It is easier to go off key and doing so is more noticeable. This is as opposed to an Oboe. The author is of the opinion that the difference is minimal. Rather, it is the way the instruments are used and the more specific tones that a Chinese opera requires, which makes it more difficult. For example, a Suona is often used to simulate a bird cawing or raucous laughter. An Oboe is used in jazz, rock and pop songs. This allows the user a little bit more leeway and creative license.

Sound Mechanics
A Souna is classified as a woodwind. It utilizes the vibration of the reed in order to produce sound, hence the need for the inner reed. An Oboe utilizes the vibration from the player’s lips, hence the need for the outside reed. Simply put, both have a different way of producing the same sound.

In Closing
A Suona is worth hearing not only because of its unique qualities but because of the unique way it is played. Currently it is being used by the Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra. The author is of the opinion that the difference does not lie in its appearance but on how it is utilized as a musical instrument.

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