How to Make a Chinese Transverse Flute
The Chinese transverse flute, or dizi as it is commonly known, is a folk instrument usually made from bamboo. However, almost any wood can be carved to craft this popular and easy-to-make traditional instrument and occasionally stone, such as jade, is also used. The dizi is often heard in Chinese classical music and is different from western flutes in that it features a membrane-covered hole, adding a buzzing and often quite haunting timbre to the sound of the instrument.
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Things You'll Need
- 15-inch wood pipe
- Sandpaper
- Drill
- Sharp knife (optional)
- Tracing paper
- Ruler
Instructions
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1
Mark a spot around 3 1/2 inches from the end of the pipe. As the dizi is a side-blown flute, it is important to position and drill your blowhole in the right place.
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2
Mark a hole 2 inches from the blow hole. This needs to be marked quite accurately as the membrane or tracing paper will be stuck over this hole to create the unique sound of the dizi. Drill a 5mm wide hole and sandpaper thoroughly. Stick the membrane over the hole when you have finished smoothing the wood, using your glue or sticky tape.
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3
Mark a point 2 1/2 inches from the membrane hole. In a straight line along the length of the flute, drill a 4mm hole every inch until you have six finger holes in total. It is essential that these holes are drilled in a perfectly straight line, otherwise fingering will be affected.
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4
Sandpaper the flute and all the holes to make the piece as smooth as possible. Depending on the width and diameter of the pipe you are using, you may want to make the holes along the length of the instrument bigger in diameter.
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5
Wash and dry the flute thoroughly, preferably for up to 48 hours, before decorating or playing. Decorate your flute as you wish, with traditional Chinese designs being the most popular decoration.
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Tips & Warnings
Be gentle when sandpapering.
If your pipe is not exactly 15 inches long, adjust the position of the holes accordingly.
Don't worry if the holes you make are bigger than suggested, as long as they are all the same diameter.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
