RE: sheng music
From: Chris Lim
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2008 11:42:18 PM
To: Charlie Piper
Hi Charlie,
Normally, the descant Sheng has a range of g to # f3 or g3. (uses treble clef) Basically, the Sheng can play any chords and simple chordal accompainment with melody simultaneouly. Yap, it can make big jumps. (the player might need to spend some time in practicing for some odd fingering movements) Dynamic range = pp to f. yap, the sheng can be quite loud at times. You are welcome 🙂
Regards,
Chris Lim
From: Charlie Piper
To: Chris Lim
Subject: sheng music
Date: Mon, 7 Jan 2008 15:48:12 +0000
Hello Chris,
My name is Charlie Piper. I am an english composer (of western classical music) and I have to write a work for descant sheng with ensemble. I know very little about this instrument. I have looked at both of your websites but I was wondering if you had any other information about how to write for the instrument. How should I notate the sheng – is it the same as any other western instrument. I know the instrument has a range of about three octaves. Also the sheng can play chords – but are there any limitations to what exact chords can be played? I hear from your playing that the sheng can be played quickly – can it make big jumps? What is the dynamic range? Can it play very loudly? I hope you can help me with this. I would be very grateful.
Many thanks
Charlie Piper
The Sheng Player 