Pipa for men?

[tph18]

Hey everyone,

I'm a classical guitarist looking to get back in touch with his musical heritage. I really want to learn to play an instrument in Han China's folk or classical tradition that has transferable skills from guitar playing (i.e. plucked strings, lute family, etc.). I was initially drawn to the pipa because I am fascinated by its diverse timbres and beautiful repertoire, but I've had second thoughts due to its association with femininity. Now, I am a person who generally dislikes gender roles and tries not to let them influence my life, but I am concerned that by playing the pipa I will fail to fully embrace the musical tradition and perhaps even offend people who grew up with it. My questions are:

1.) Do you think I'm right to feel this way or am I being silly?

2.) Can someone please explain to me how pipa became associated with femininity rather than remaining gender-neutral?

3.) If you agree that I should stay away from pipa, are there any instruments in the Han Chinese musical tradition that are the masculine equivalent of the pipa? (i.e. plucked strings, lute family)

Thanks,
Tom

[edcat7]

Hi Tom and welcome,

Who cares what instrument you play, after all you're playing for yourself. I had a few years of classical guitar tuition and I'm afraid I don't have much to show for it.

We once had a forum member who was a flamenco guitarist who taught himself the pipa. Remembering his YT videos, I thought he did a very credible job.

The pipa is incredibly difficult to learn, you'll find the zhongruan and if you like the sound of the pipa, the liuqin much easier for a guitarist to learn. The zhongruan and liuqin have the same tuning.

I'm having on-line erhu tuition from Eason of Singapore and plan to re-pick-up the zhongruan and liuqin at a much later date.

Best wishes,
Ed