A beginner's questions :)

[yuhongmei123]

Hello! Here are some questions I've had about the guzheng for a while now . . .

Do you do the tremolo with the thumb or the index finger?
Do you have any guzheng books/pieces appropriate for very beginners looking to learn?
Any recommendations for a teacher in NJ?
How long did it take you to get to the level of playing Fisherman's Song?

Thank you =)

[lindsay]

Hi!
The standard technique is to tremolo with your thumb, and use your index finger to hold the thumb pick firm.

If you google "Sound of China guzheng", the top site should be chinesezither net, which has tutorials and videos in English.

Sorry, no recs for teachers in NJ

I played Fisherman's Song quite early in my guzheng learning. The first, slower part was easy to play. However, I feel that I lack the technique to bring out the feeling of the song. I also cannot play the fast part fluidly at speed. (I'm an adult learner, and have been playing on and off for 10 years).

Good luck, and most importantly, have fun with your learning!

Lindsay