Right?! When I first started learning Xiao it was very frustrating not being able to easily find information. I hope this helps alleviate that pressure for those starting off with Xiao or Jian Pu for other Chinese instruments.
Dude, I have been looking for something like this for YEARS, went to the chinese comunity no one could help me with someone who could play! I can,t believe your video never came up! My shifu thought me to play but he never mentioned the basic of "that is (f or g) from here now all finger pressed" CHanged my life THANK YOU !
Cheers Jake :) -It feels different watching your channel again now since having met you in Wudang earlier this year. I'm really glad, brother. 很高兴认识你 ❤
Just yesterday I received my own flute, with a hope that I’ll find materials on how to study playing it. And now I’m watching your channel. That’s is the lesson for me, If I've been wading through the wilderness to find out something, I need to make an instruction manual about it for others. Because I'm hardly alone in this kind of search, and there may be someone else out there looking. And the day before yesterday, I intuitively chose this musical instrument for myself.
Excellent! Welcome to the channel. This is the original tutorial series, but I have since updated the entire thing. I also wrote a study guide for the xiao. It is available on Amazon! You should check it out. Updated Tutorials: th-cam.com/play/PLnpoQffCcRC6Uwbi5x5hcExUi5Hdobwjr.html Amazon Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN21JHJ9
Got my first Xiao 2 days ago, and this really helped me even though I’m still having difficulty in playing and making a good sound but hopefully I learn.
Merci beaucoup pour cette présentation de cette Flûte Chinoise verticale 😍 Cela me donne l’envie d'apprendre à en jouer. Habitant en France, où puis-je me procurer un Xiao de bonne qualité mais pour un niveau débutant ? Merci encore de partager avec nous votre expérience et savoir-faire.
For me your the best teacher!❤ I have this flute for more then 5 years and i don't know how to play...and now I have the best teacher... thank you so much friend for sharing🙏🏼👍🏼👋❤❤❤❤❤❤
Got my 1st xiao yesterday, and thanks to this video, I’m already starting to play my 1st scale. I love the sound of this flute. Thank you for all the advice on here. Still sounds a bit windy, but it’s my 1st ever flute and I’ve had 1 hour total practicing so very pleased with the results. My hands get very tired and sore, but I assume that’ll strengthen with practice. Great tutorials. Thank you
Glad I found your video. Some of what you discussed I had found scattered all over the internet, but you pulled it all together here in one video, plus so much more. The explanations about the types of xiaos in your Structure section is most valuable to new players such as me. There is a wealth of great information here. Thank you so much for taking the time to put this video together.
Thanks a lot for this material. I spent some time at the academy a few years ago and have been looking for resources to keep learning since then. Much appreciated!
Thank you for your explanations, recently acquired a xiao flute and it is the first time that I have a wind instrument. I will follow your advice, thanks for sharing your knowledge 18:21
Of course! Welcome to the channel. I have created updated tutorials for the xiao since this one that you can find here: th-cam.com/play/PLnpoQffCcRC6Uwbi5x5hcExUi5Hdobwjr.html
What a great video, Mr. Pinnick. Found out lots of useful informations and knowledges. I have played Dizi flute before and started to learn Xiao flute recently. Still need to adapt with and this video really helps me a lot. Thank you for sharing this insight..
Thanks Jake, this was an amazing introduction. I've been hoping to learn the Xiao, but I haven't jumped into it when I was in Wudang. I've ordered a couple of Dong Xiaos in G Key on Aliexpress, one three section for travel, and one single piece. I'm looking forward to them arriving so I can start! What kind of flutes do the kids in the traditional classes learn? They seem to be a higher pitch?
The Xiao is most often a G key to start as is the Dizi (the horizontal flute). Although the Dizi is much higher pitched than the Xiao. Hope you enjoy them once they arrive!
This is all I was hoping for to stunble upon. I almost gave up because with one book in chinese that is on the internet, the resources in english are really scarce, so thanks for doing this and even thou you have almost no subscribers I beg you, please continue with this channel no matter what. Thanks
Thank you so much! I fell in love with the sound of the xiao and was having so much difficulty finding resources for it! I do plan on learning Mandarin, but I wanted to start playing as soon as possible.
You are welcome! And welcome to the channel. There are a bunch of resources here, on the website, and in the discord channel. You are welcome to join us!
This is helpful, I bought a rosewood xiao 8 hole in f key. I used to play the saxophone but due to injury it was too heavy. I was trying to find some basic materials to help me learn on my own. The issue I have is the sound formation. It's more miss than hit at the moment
Yes, the first sounds need fine tuning at the very beginning. I have made some newer tutorials that go into a little more detail on this subject that you are welcome to check out.
Great information, including background and history. I got my first Xiao flute in G and am focusing on making those low and mid notes sound perfectly clear. Looking forward to moving through the tutorials (slowly but surely!). I had to re-watch the 'basic scale and notation' section about ten times but I'm getting there! Thank you for making this great content too.
Cool. My Xião arrived today and it looks pretty cool. Now I'm trying to create a tone which is a little bit more difficult than I expected. But I'll get it by practice. As a child I learned to play recorder but I have no clear memory about this. Now I'm excited to start this musical experiment.
I fell in love with the sound of the Shakuhachi. After searching around, I found that those are a bit expensive for me at the moment. I am thinking of starting something beginner level. After searching around, I see the Xiao has a similar sound, and could get something under $100 to begin with. I'm subscribing to your channel for once I buy it. I also love that you give these lessons. Do you think It is ok starting with Xiao and then perhaps moving to Shakuhachi later? I might stay with Xiao in the end, but I don't know this at the moment, since I've never played them.
So glad I found your site, I have been attempting to learn the xiao for several years now with moderate success. Now I am really motivated. Your videos are excellent and easy to watch as your teaching style is so relaxed. Best regards, Jimp
Welcome! That is the whole inspiration for these videos and I am really happy that they have found their way to you! I hope your learning continues to grow!
Very nice video, I will search your channel for more videos like this. I definitely see this video as a potential series that captures a very niche and passionate market of xiao enthusiasts Thank you!
Thank you, your vidéo make me want to try the xiao so so much, I don’t know how to get a great one… but the sound is really really relaxing and I appreciate really much the video bc of the step by step!!
I just recently posted a video talking about how to pick a xiao: th-cam.com/video/MCBO2CfiLmk/w-d-xo.html And I also have a few for sale in my discord channel. You can join for free through the links in the video description.
Thanks. I got a xiao a while ago. I love the sound but could n't find a teacher or tutorials so I am verry glad you started this tutorials 😊. What I find difficult about the xiao is that somthimes I get a beautifull full sound and sometimes I don't. I cant find out what I am doing wrong or what I should adjust.
To get a stable sound you need to experiment with your embouchure (the way you blow into the flute). Make the air stream tighter and smaller and aim it by pulling the bottom lip in in small increments until you find the right balance point. The higher the pitch you are trying to play the "closer" the air stream should be to straight down in front of you. A common mistake to change pitch is to tilt the head forward and down. While this may work in a moment, it will not be consistent. Keep working on it and you will get it!
@@naomiaudiffret1224 "Pu" is common in the beginning stages because the embouchure is adjusted with the lips. The "pu" sound sets you up well to do that. Although as you continue to play and do various techniques "tu" would fit better because continuous sound techniques and variations (like double tonguing and other flares) are accomplished with the tongue.
You can play an F key flute with these tutorials no problem. There are slight differences in pitch as the lowest note is one step down. Although you can play as if the lowest note is the same and your songs will gain a little added depth. If you want to match the same tone as a G key flute you only need to play with the lowest note at 4 and you can adjust the songs up one finger pattern. I will be honest though that I don't do this. If you are playing for yourself, performing the songs in a deeper flute sounds very peaceful. I even play my D Key flute with a G fingering and it makes the songs very soothing. It is a very versatile instrument!
Thanks Sifu. Awesome introduction. Received my first G Xiao yesterday. Having difficulty to making sound, is it common? Would like more tips in blowing techniques.
Yes, it is common. It took me a week of daily practice to get a steady reliable sound. You will find that patience and prudence are very important as you train the embouchure. Even after a few years of practicing it is still the place that can always use improvement in the fine details. Watch through some videos. Specifically, #17 as it recaps a lot and there are details in the description for what each tutorial covers. Always revisit the basics!
Very educational video, thank you! even it is not my native language but a how to play the xiao tutorials still are very rare. For a beginner like me its really difficult. Im so happy that I found that amazing instrument (instead of the Shakuhachi, which ist very popular here in germany. ) I have a G and F Xiao, but the F ist not good to play with small Hands, but i love the deeper sound TTvTT
I've been thinking about buying a xiao for a while. Thanks a lot for this thorough introduction: you answer many doubts I had in my mind. Do you know where I can buy a good xiao from china online? The only ones I find have carved poems and I would like to buy a simple one. Thank you!
If you are interested, I also have some flutes for sale from a maker here in China. Send an email to wudang.america@gmail.com or send me a DM on Facebook. There is a video on the WuDao Facebook channel demoing the flutes for sale.
Pitch bending? ...Thank you so much for teaching brother. Is pitch bending done by rolling fingers off the holes? Can emboucher bend notes too? Are there other pitch bending techniques for the xiao? I ordered an 8 hole F...
Bending the pitch can be done with the embouchure unless you are just moving a single pitch like a movement in glissando. If you are just "bending" and raising or lowering a single pitch, this is done by a slow shift of the fingers. Bending the shape of the pitch to jump octaves or too add other effects is done with the mouth shape though.
God, I play it since about one year, never really cared about how it is played traditionally, now you telling me that it must be the ringfinger that stays on the flute all the time ;) actually bad, because you miss some extra notes keeping one or two holes closed. I really need to think if I will go and change my way of playing now. Thanks anyway, this is definitely the best introduction you can find on youtube!
Well that is only for playing the basic scale. Of course they are used occasionally for flats/sharps and different tunings. For the most part though you can play many tracks without ever using them.
Hi Can you tell me do you do music notation so they can be printed out instead of it being on the screen, as can't find any , and also the fingering chart for Xiao Key G, or a link to find them. I really like your channel it gives me some hope. Julie
I love your videos and want to buy a Xiao. Where is the best place to buy one that is of a reputable quality? Can’t wait to take lessons from your videos! Looking forward to your reply. Thanks Angelina
I am not sure as I have bought all of my flutes here in China. I do source xiao and sell them online and ship international, so that may be an option if you are interested.
@@WuDaoMusic Thanks for your reply Jake. I just found a Xiao maker before your reply. They are Bamboo Grove based in Shanghai. I bought a beginners Xiao in the key of G and a Nan Xiao in the key of F. I watch your videos yesterday and loved the key of F so I quickly made a switch from G to F for my Nan Xiao. I am looking forward to learn from your videos. Thank you so much for making these videos and in English too! ☺️
Thanks a lot for this video ! When you're talking about the G flute, you start with a "G" but actually its an "A". So if I understand, we have to think a Major Second up when we are writing for the G Xiao ?
I am not the best person to ask on this. But yes, on the G key flute, the "G" is centralized on the 3rd full note up (Do or 1). But the lowest note is actually D. I write and read all of my notation in jian pu which is the Chinese standard number notation. It is very simple, but it allows one to cut quite a few corners in actual music theory. XD
Thank you for sharing this valuable information! Just one comment regarding the study material - the Word documents are not displayed correctly, probably it requires a special font to be added. Is it possible to add a PDF for Basic Drills - Pattern Practice.docx? Thank you!
Hi Jake, I've received my Xiao today and am so excited to start practicing. At the moment I've just got one question. How do I look after my Xiao after playing it for a while (there must be moisture inside) and also what about a regular maintenance (oiling?)? Thank you very much for you fantastic introduction. Ruth
Awesome! As far as maintenance, unless you are in a really dry climate you shouldn't need to oil it. The best is to store it in a stable environment. I don't always wrap my xiao in a case unless I am not playing it for a while. Especially if there is moisture buildup you do not want to put it directly in a case. This will cause mold. The key with all maintenance is to allow the xiao to adjust slowly from storage to playing and from climate to climate.
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you very much, Jake. I'm leaving my Xiao out. Whenever I see it and have time, I'm practicing the scale you are recommending. I'll get there slowly. Thanks again. Ruth
I just ordered an 8-hole ABS resin xiao from china because I'm afraid bamboo would crack in dry, cold climate. Anyway, these videos are gonna be huge help, thank you for making these!
I'd been dreaming of having my own Xiao for a while cause they are pretty expensive for me. But I finally got one a few weeks ago. I technically do pretty "okay" job on the start. Maybe it's because I already play Dizi so the way to make chinese wind instrument make "sound" is not a real big surprise for me. However, I find my self a couple or so problems and it would be a big hand if you could help me by any chances. My first problem is I have a problem with making the note low G (or the note 5 with dot underneath) I found it's so much breathcomsuming for a weak girl like me I feel like my breath could not even reach the pinky finger And feel like I'm going to pass out trying to play the note. It kind of weird for me as I handle the note low A, the note straightly *next to* it, pretty well. Do you have any idea about it or what should I do on this? It's quite ridiculous for me that I can't even play Happy birthday! Second is I have a problem of changing octaves. May I mention obout Dizi a bit; the wayof changing octaves in Dizi is to change the angle of the input wind to the mouthpiece hole. But in Xiao I could not find a full complete tutorial on how to change octaves loe middle high (or maybe there might be some but, my knowledge about Xiao is too little to self-learn from them) Could you please hand me some help? Will look forward for your reply! Big big big thank you!!!
Awesome! Welcome to the Xiao fam. The low notes on the xiao are tricky for everyone when they first get started. There are a combination of different approaches, but basically you need to blow more downwards but without changing the angle of the flute itself too much. This just takes practice finding the sensitivity without overblowing. For switching octaves it can actually be approached just like the dizi and alter the angle as you change but it is better to adjust the size of the embouchure. As you get higher the lips get smaller thus narrowing the air stream into the flute. Also angling slightly upwards as you go higher will help to "cut" the note and get the really high notes. There are new tutorials coming out soon and I will have to make one more dedicated to this.
@@WuDaoMusic Sounds a bit complex for a complete newbie like me, LoL. Still so kind of you trying to explain all to me. I really apreciate that! I'll try to practice using the guide you gave, hopefully would succeed 😂, while looking forward to your upcoming tutorial. Thank you!!
Hello, beautiful videos, Thanks for sharing. Where could one purchase these kind of instruments ? How would you know if it's a quality instrument while buying online ? Thanks!
Thank you! I actually just shared a video demoing some xiao for sale right now. You can check them out at th-cam.com/video/gX50V7PRTNw/w-d-xo.html Buying a xiao comes down to a lot of factors. Playability and tuning are the most important.
Excellent introduction, thank you! If you are living on Wudang mountain I suppose you might have enough amount of time to write your own version of xiao tutorial for English world or translate a Chinese book for that purpose, or even write a book about your story in China, that would be interesting, and make some money at the same time, win win. I wish you have a wonderful time in China and.....oh I almost forgot, why not learn some Chinese painting, the one behind you looks really great
I have actually begun some of these projects. I have a podcast for my experiences and stories. Someday I will write it out. And I have been considering writing out my own English xiao practice book. Painting however, I only dabbled in. Music is more my art form of choice. ;)
Check out the description for every video on this channel. ;) There are a few websites but they are all in Chinese and it can be difficult to find what you are looking for.
Thanks a lot is a. very nice video and motivates me to start with my Xiao that it has being sleeping for a while. Just a question, the notation sheet you have in your web is kind of different with the drawings of the notation you show in here. I guess is not included the holes that have to be always closed right? Because it makes me doubt if I am doing the scale correctly. So for starting I am having as a reference the video but if I go to the scale sheet in your web pages, I kind of not get it. :) But otherwise thanks a lot hope to continue looking at more videos.
For the finger patterns, the sheet on the website is copied from a textbook. It is the standard however, there are a few notes especially when you get to the high octave that can be played differently and a lot easier. Use the ones from the video as those are the same I use. It is a good idea to copy them down and commit them to memory. Once you have this it is a lot easier to learn new tracks. The only thing that I don't cover in the videos is the half notes (flats and sharps and the like). Those are on the website but are seldom used so for the videos I only work with the main notes.
Thank you so much for this introductory video! I have a quick question. Do you have tips for breathe control when practicing the Xiao? I think I’m doing something incorrectly because I get lightheaded when practicing. Thank you! :)
Great introduction to the Xiāo! I’m really interested in learning to play it. The problem is that I’d like to learn to play the Qínxiāo because at some point I maybe want to learn to play the Gǔqín, too and make recordings with both of them. You said that it’s very difficult to play the Qínxiāo, however, I found a website that sells one that says that it’s “easy to play”. Now I’m confused a little bit to be honest. Do you think that I still could try the Qínxiāo? BTW, my Tàijíquán teacher Ingo plays the Xiāo, too. 😊
Dongxiao is fine with guqin, you just need to play softly at times. Although, a lot of performance and recording is done with dongxiao because the volume levels can be controlled externally. Qinxiao is much harder for most people because the airstream has to be very precise and the flute itself is very narrow and small which makes it harder to maintain a comfortable position for some people. I think a business will say that everything is easy to play. Maybe so, maybe not. In my experience, dongxiao are easier to begin with though it depends on each person. And yes, Ingo is doing online lessons with me. ;)
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you very much for your advice! I’ll buy a Dòngxiāo then. Ingo told me yesterday that he’s your student (which I didn’t know before). He says that lessons are important and that you also teach the aspect of breath cultivation when playing the Xiāo which sounds very interesting to me. I already play some Irish whistles and I used the piper’s grip on my old low whistle so maybe that might help as well.
I may have missed this, but some of the fingerings on the higher notes are the same as on the lower. Such as low-6 and mid-6. How do I make the higher note? Also, when I do the fingerings for high-4 and high-5 I don't hear a difference. What's going wrong for me on those higher notes? Thanks for these videos!
Between each register (low-middle-high) you need to adjust the embouchure. Specifically, you will need to tighten the air flow. At first it will be easier to make the higher pitches by blowing stronger but you really want to be able to use minimal force. For the high register, there are different finger patterns that make it easier. I will be doing a tutorial to explain this in more detail soon.
Hmm. You can play all of the same sheet music but you will have to search for a finger chart for 6 hole flute. The finger patterns are different but you can read the same music. Some things may be more difficult to play because you may need more complicated positions like half holes and such.
One question I have about the Xiao as a flute maker: Why the heck do so many Xiaos have such a long part of them down at the bottom? I don't believe that they form a real part of the primary air column in a functional musical sense. Why is there so much extra length down at the bottom? Sure doesn't help when you're trying to pack a Xiao into a suitcase! I have been seeking an answer to this question, but so far, I have obtained none.
I just got this question on a recent video as well. It is partly aesthetics and partly for increasing the volume and resonance of the xiao. Functionally it doesn't make that much of a difference, as I have played much shorter xiao that have an equal amount of power, but it does seem to increase volume to a degree. This helps one to play, and hear, the low notes on a lower key xiao. For example, my D key xiao is gigantic and the extra length feels like boosts the volume of the deepest notes. However, I am not a xiao craftsman so I cannot absolutely say why it is this way.
I think my flute is broken haha the 'DO' doesnt seem to work. like the second from bottom hole doesnt seem to make any difference unless the holes above are covered
Hmm. As you raise in pitch the above notes do need to be covered. I have some fingering charts on my website (www.waysofwudang.com/how-to-read-jian-pu) however they only show the true pitch not the actually fingering position that you may have to use. I do a walkthrough on this video: th-cam.com/video/mRzreEDqlMg/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for the tutorials - I also am having a hard time getting consistently a good tone out of the Xiao. Although I am just starting - and I am finding that unless I look at myself in the mirror I cannot visualize (or feel) where I need to place the hole. I also find that the only way at the moment where I can get a consistent note on the lower register is to really relax my lips/mouth - or otherwise as I try the fingering which covers more holes, I just get the higher octave notes .... Any additional advice you may have for us would be greatly appreciated, the fingering for the flute looks easy enough, but it's really getting it to sound right seem to be the tough part. (recorders are, like, so easy by comparison!)
Awesome! Yes, when I first started it took quite some time to get a consistent sound. Even now I have to take a moment to adjust when I switch between flutes. I tried to go over different breathing techniques throughout the series. So some videos have other explanations about to improve the embouchure. I am thinking that I will return soon and upload some more basic videos with training details and little tricks. Keep practicing and focus on making the air stream more precise. You will be surprised how little of pressure and size you really need for a clear pitch.
@@WuDaoMusic hi sifu, would very much appreciate a video dedicated to embouchure and blowing techniques. I'm having trouble getting any sound beyond the do (and the do is very wobbly at that). but will keep practicing. thank you for the videos!
Hi! I’ve been watching your videos a lot and they’ve been so helpful thank you so much! The only thing Is I can only get the highest octave and the lowest octave on my Xiao flute but I can never seem to get the middle one do you have any tips to help me?
Hmm. That is interesting. You may just be over adjusting and jumping up too quickly. Do not blow too hard as you raise the pitch from the lower register. It is a very fine difference. If you can hear a lot of extra "wind" around your central pitch you could be overblowing as well. This will make it difficult to fine tune your playing. Try to play with a soft volume and take your time as you "climb" into the middle notes.
Thank you for your great tutorial. 🙏🙏🙏🎶 I have a question, maybe you can help me. :) Normally I am playing Bansuri, but now I wanted to try the Xiao. I have one here which has only 5 holes on the front and one on the back... The space between the holes is veeery much bigger than on your flutes. For me it's not a big problem because on bass Bansuris it's the same, but... I am confused. 😄 I have asked Google and read that a Xiao traditionally has five holes, like mine. In your video I learned that it has more than five... The point is, I am thinking about buying a better, more expensive one, and before doing this, I would like to understand this hole-thing. 😄 Maybe you can help me? Many greetings! 🙋☀️☀️☀️
Yes, Xiao come with 5, 6, and 8 holes. However, 5 holes is probably either a nan xiao or a chiba (shakuhachi). With this there may be many notes that you need to play with a half hole covered (hence the bigger holes). For modern xiao playing, the best would be an 8 holed xiao. This gives you the easiest fingering patterns. I hope this helps!
Amazing video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us, do you have any recommendations for online sellers? I am looking to buy my first Xiao but there aren’t many music stores where I live. Your content is awesome I can’t wait to see more of it!
Thanks! I have a few xiao for sale from a maker here in China. We ship international and can work with you to find something that you like. Check out the WuDao Facebook page to see a demo of some that I have on hand now and send a DM to get started!
Thank you for your videos! When I blow (with no holes covered), it just makes a high-pitched, airy tone. I'm thinking I'm just exciting the higher register but I can't seem to get the strong, sustained mid-register sort of note that you do. Any tips?
Try correcting the angle of the flute. It sounds like you could be either raising your chin too much or dropping the flute too low. Either one will make it easier for you to jump up higher in pitch.
Hello! Unfortunately, I don't speak English well, and I don't understand what you are talking about in the video. Can you explain in text what the symbols (dots, curves, sticks) mean in sheet music? Then I can translate your text and understand it.
Thank you for sharing this with us! I'm a guitarplayer who recently started to play Guqin and Dizi. Recently I've been looking at "Bass key" Dizi for example the G bass Dizi. I like the sound more than the hightone Dizi, but I think I like the sound of Xiao more. Is the G key Xiao about the same range as a Bass G Dizi? Do you think Xiao is harder or easier to learn than Dizi?
Awesome! Some say the Xiao is harder than the Dizi, but I believe it is the other way around. The basics for the Dizi are harder. The range for the G Xiao is lower than Dizi. Somewhat comparable to the bass Dizi. Whereas the fingering is easier on the Xiao. I hope you enjoy the tutorials! Still more coming!
@@WuDaoMusic I just bought a G-key Xiao and I´m in love with it. Personally I think it is easier to play the Xiao than the Dizi. Excited to learn this instrument.
Hey, thank you so much for sharing your videos as there's not much material on this instrument :) I just received my xiao the other day. Can you tell me how to switch between the lower, middle and upper registers of the instrument? Is is a matter of fingering or positioning of the air stream? Thank you again.
Awesome! Glad to help someone starting off with their new Xiao! In the videos I get to this I think episode #3,7, and 15. The pitch changes are both through embouchure (lip seal/blowing technique) and finger patterns. Focus on the low and middle octaves first. The high register has different finger patterns. The ones that I recommend are on my website and through the links under each video. Check those out!
@@WuDaoMusic thank you so much for getting back to me! I'll continue along the tutorial videos then and keep working at it. I'm thankful I found your channel :)
Unfortunately, I have sourced all of my flutes in China and I am not familiar with US sellers. I do have xiao for sale that I ship internationally. There are demo videos in our Discord server (link in description)
@@WuDaoMusic When I compare the sound of our flutes, it sounds the same when I move down one note on mine compared to yours, so your 3 is a "A" om the tenor, (and 2=G, 1=F, 7.=E, 6.=D and 5.=C). The tenor is tuned to 442Hz, maybe your is tuned to another frequency? So now that I have figured that out, it will be exciting trying your music ;-)
Thank you for this great tutorial!!! One question...my sound production is very breath expensive. I can only play two or three notes. What am I missing there? Thank you!
You might be "leaking" air around the seal of the flute or breathing too high and creating tension in the chest. These are the two most common. For the leaking and wasting air, you really just have to spend time working on the embouchure and continue to get it tighter and more efficient with placement and size. For breath length, most often new students breath high and in the chest. Instead focus on dropping the diaphragm and breathing more to the belly keeping the shoulders relaxed as you do this. The breath should be more consistent, smooth, and longer when you do this.
Hi there, it's Dat again. Question: how would you play the c-sharp in the first scale or octave? I'm talking from G xiao perspective. My g flute, when I let go of all the holes, it's a c natural. Thought I let you know. Thank you.
If all of the holes are uncovered that should be the c sharp position. You may be tucking your chin in and dropping the head too low to get the natural. If you want the sharp keep your head up or slightly adjust the angle of the flute and you should here it gets a little sharper.
I have purchased all of my in person while travelling in China or on TaoBao. Although, I know of diziflute.com that other have bought from. Their website has some material but contact them directly and you can get something arranged.
This is a maker in the United States that sells xiao's. I have one and like it a lot, but his xiao's are expensive. This is Geoffery Ellis Flutes whose web site is at www.ellisflutes.com/world-flutes/xiao
Hey Jake, thanks A LOT, your videos are a massive help for me in order to learn the Xiao. It's really difficult to find proper video learning material. :) I am an absolute beginner and I am just wondering how I differentiate between La Xi Do Re Mi in the lower scale and La Xi Do Re Mi in the middle/higher scale while playing, because the fingering for those notes are exactly the same, am I right? I can play from the lowest Sol to the middle Sol, and after that the fingering repeats for La etc., I don't get how you play the higher notes. Is it a different breath I need to use? Looking forward to your help! Thanks a lot!
Hello! Glad that you found the channel and it is helpful in your practice. As the notes get higher in pitch, the blowing must be adjusted slightly. Think of it as the higher you get, the closer the blowing gets to your body. A trick to think about it blow air over the back of your hand. Without moving your hand or head, adjust the pressure and angle of the air coming out to go from the far side of your hand (low notes) to the close side (higher notes). When you play the xiao this is what you should be doing. This adjustment is made by slightly frowning and pulling the bottom lip "in". It will definitely take a little time to get tuned in to the exact position, but this should help you find the right sound. Good luck and keep practicing!
@@WuDaoMusic I see! This sounds like practicing, practicing, practicing. This was a very nice explanation, thanks for your fast answer! And the trick and visualization with the back of the hand and breath flow from the far side to the close side is soo helpful. Gonna watch all your tutorials and thanks for being such a nice teacher for me and also for other people around the world :)
@@WuDaoMusicI guess that, for xiao, the mechanism in producing a sound is by the resonance of the instrument when an air stream presses on a particular spot of the circular inner wall of the instrument. A player can adjust the pressure of the air stream by (1) adjusting the embrochure (風門）, (2) the angle of attack of the air stream on the inner wall, and (3) the amount of air pressure via the lower abdomen (丹田 )。 In dizi, the sound is produced via the vibration of the dizi membrane. The membrane has a different density from the other parts of the instrument. Hence, an equal dose of air pressure can produce a much more "piercing" sound in dizi than in xiao.
In the beginning it is super common to be over "squeezing" the flute and have a tense grip. This will go away once you get accustomed to playing. However, if it persists, you should take a close look at how you are holding the flute. If your wrists are not flat, elbows too close to the body, or knuckles are not flat, these could all put unnecessary pressure on the wrists.
I am shakuhachi player and I ordered a closed mouthpiece style Xiao in F....I am quite surprised that it can playe all the notes except the B. So the highest note on the first register is a Bb and the lowest one on the higher register (every holes closed) a C. Is it normal or is there a problem with my Xiao ?
Yes, the xiao is quite versatile. B can be played, just remove all of the fingers except 2nd and 6th holes (counting from the lowest note). Otherwise that is pretty much right.
I would personally say the Xiao is best to start with. Dizi basics can be quite difficult and the shakuhachi has so much variety in the embouchure. I mainly play Xiao and am just beginning the Shakuhachi so I can only say from my experience so far though. The best is to start whichever you are the most interested in. Even though the dizi and shakuhachi may be more difficult, good basics will always be a huge benefit later on. Whatever you do, make sure you dedicate plenty of time to them!
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you so much..funny how it went, I kept my wish to start playing flute in my heart for months.....life went on....till I found a Wudang Daoist accademy in Purple Cloud Temple in Wudang mountains, learning Taiji, Qigong, and most important Daoism...and here I am again ready to take on flute. Thank you so much for your precious words.
xiao is not widely popular in China, the most popular one is in effect, dizi, and in China, learning dizi is basically learning xiao, but not the oppopsite, because the difficulties are totally different. and the formation are all been modified from ancient ones. and the origins were traced back to Jiahu, 8000 years ago. Xiao is purely a musical instrument from Han, dizi isn't. Tang shakuhachi, is 6 holes, has nothing to do with the Japanese ones, there is no confirmed history in Japan to suggest they are from us, not mentioning the original songs are not ever a little like a piece of chinese traditional music. But Japan invaded Korea , and smuggle lots of artisans , guess whose flutes are five holes? Korea. and 8 holes can play both traditonal music and modern ones, that's why xiao is eight holes. and 8 holes dizi or 9 holes dizi cann'ot play traditional songs well, that's why dizi is still 6 holes or seven holes.
and about why it is G tone, is because what we call" tongyin", tong is "zhu tong", if you cover all the finger holes, it is a "zhu tong", a bamboo stem, the sound it produces , we call "tong" sound. the most used tong sound is sol, that's why and then the fourth hole (dizi) 's actually sound ( dol) is the tone in piano.
different blowing holes have different timbre, so every one of them is unique, we have blowing holes that having a cover( more less these days), without one, u cut, V cut, UV cut, Tang cut( shakuhachi 's blowing hole), so Tang shakuhachi is more capable with 8 holes. But in Japan , they use 7 holes or 9 holes to record some shakuhachi music, but the formation is failed to be popular . And they still play 5 holes.
in winter u need to always have a humidifier to maintain the humidity , keep them over 50% , to ensure they don't crack. the better ones, are more easy to crack.
Yes, there are some for sale and I do live streams when I get new inventory in. (I am not the maker though) facebook.com/wudaomusic/ On the most recent post I demo different xiaos. There are still some G, E, and one F key flute available for sale.
Oh... I was hoping that there is a higher scale... 2 octaves for a instrument is a really small scale. I can't play most of the songs using Xiao. That is really disappointing...
Xiao can play 3 registers (low, middle, and high). For a wood wind, that is quite a bit of range. Granted it is limited when compared to a piano, stringed instruments, or singing. Overall you can get quite a bit of variety out of it though.
@@WuDaoMusic I watched the video. But I'm used to more recent instruments, like piano, violin, trumpet, which I play. They have much wider scale. Even flute (I mean regular flute played in orchestras) has much wider scale. I was just hoping there is something beyond what I can play. But even a little piece that I wanted to play is still a tone too low or a few tones too high to play on xiao (depending in which octave is start to play it, and yes, I got it in the right tune. I think this piece is for dizi flute, but I don't own one :c). That's why I watched the video. To check out if I can play higher or lower than what I already learned. I think your video is really good, I was just disappointed that I can't play more notes on xiao
@@gziaki6520 Yea. Definitely less than orchestra instruments. A dizi might be more in your alley then. It has a little more range than a xiao. But an extended range would require more than one flute. There are higher notes than what I go to because they get very complicated and most of the Chinese music doesn't go that far with the flutes. Maybe check out a dizi finger chart. :)
Wow actually someone who covers notations and simple basics in a video.. i could cry.
Right?! When I first started learning Xiao it was very frustrating not being able to easily find information. I hope this helps alleviate that pressure for those starting off with Xiao or Jian Pu for other Chinese instruments.
Dude, I have been looking for something like this for YEARS, went to the chinese comunity no one could help me with someone who could play! I can,t believe your video never came up! My shifu thought me to play but he never mentioned the basic of "that is (f or g) from here now all finger pressed" CHanged my life THANK YOU !
Happy to be of service ☺
5:12 Agreed :) Learning about the instrument itself helps one to understand and embody the essence of it ❤
Cheers Jake :) -It feels different watching your channel again now since having met you in Wudang earlier this year. I'm really glad, brother. 很高兴认识你 ❤
Thanks a lot for sharing!!
Just yesterday I received my own flute, with a hope that I’ll find materials on how to study playing it. And now I’m watching your channel.
That’s is the lesson for me, If I've been wading through the wilderness to find out something, I need to make an instruction manual about it for others. Because I'm hardly alone in this kind of search, and there may be someone else out there looking.
And the day before yesterday, I intuitively chose this musical instrument for myself.
Excellent! Welcome to the channel. This is the original tutorial series, but I have since updated the entire thing. I also wrote a study guide for the xiao. It is available on Amazon! You should check it out.
Updated Tutorials: th-cam.com/play/PLnpoQffCcRC6Uwbi5x5hcExUi5Hdobwjr.html
Amazon Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN21JHJ9
@@WuDaoMusic Great! Will do!
Nice how you explained why there are different whole number flutes. I didn’t understand why initially
Got my first Xiao 2 days ago, and this really helped me even though I’m still having difficulty in playing and making a good sound but hopefully I learn.
Awesome! I hope that these tutorials help to get you started!
Where did you buy it?
@@enantiodromia i bought it on Amazon, still works perfectly
Merci beaucoup pour cette présentation de cette Flûte Chinoise verticale 😍
Cela me donne l’envie d'apprendre à en jouer.
Habitant en France, où puis-je me procurer un Xiao de bonne qualité mais pour un niveau débutant ?
Merci encore de partager avec nous votre expérience et savoir-faire.
There are probably some sellers in the area. However, if you are interested in a bamboo xiao I also can ship international. ☺
For me your the best teacher!❤ I have this flute for more then 5 years and i don't know how to play...and now I have the best teacher... thank you so much friend for sharing🙏🏼👍🏼👋❤❤❤❤❤❤
Got my 1st xiao yesterday, and thanks to this video, I’m already starting to play my 1st scale. I love the sound of this flute. Thank you for all the advice on here. Still sounds a bit windy, but it’s my 1st ever flute and I’ve had 1 hour total practicing so very pleased with the results. My hands get very tired and sore, but I assume that’ll strengthen with practice. Great tutorials. Thank you
Wow! 1 hour and making sound through the basic scale? That is really good! My first week/month was torture trying to get sound. ;) Keep it up!
Finally! I bought a Xiao but didn’t know what to do with it. Thank you!
Glad I found your video. Some of what you discussed I had found scattered all over the internet, but you pulled it all together here in one video, plus so much more. The explanations about the types of xiaos in your Structure section is most valuable to new players such as me. There is a wealth of great information here. Thank you so much for taking the time to put this video together.
I am happy to help. Hope you enjoy your xiao practice and can follow everything well!
Thanks a lot for this material.
I spent some time at the academy a few years ago and have been looking for resources to keep learning since then. Much appreciated!
You are welcome! Glad that it helps!
Thank you for your explanations, recently acquired a xiao flute and it is the first time that I have a wind instrument. I will follow your advice, thanks for sharing your knowledge 18:21
Of course! Welcome to the channel. I have created updated tutorials for the xiao since this one that you can find here: th-cam.com/play/PLnpoQffCcRC6Uwbi5x5hcExUi5Hdobwjr.html
My dongxiao came in today. I will definitely be learning from your videos!
Awesome!! Good luck on your journey!
Love the part about History & Structure Jake. Awesome job in research! :D
Thanks! It is very basic but I hope it helps paint some broad strokes in the picture!
Awesome brother, thank you heart ❤️ Wu Xin - From a Ren Xue practitioner
What a great video, Mr. Pinnick. Found out lots of useful informations and knowledges. I have played Dizi flute before and started to learn Xiao flute recently. Still need to adapt with and this video really helps me a lot. Thank you for sharing this insight..
You are very welcome! I have been updating the tutorial series with some new videos you can check out as well.
Thanks Jake, this was an amazing introduction. I've been hoping to learn the Xiao, but I haven't jumped into it when I was in Wudang. I've ordered a couple of Dong Xiaos in G Key on Aliexpress, one three section for travel, and one single piece. I'm looking forward to them arriving so I can start! What kind of flutes do the kids in the traditional classes learn? They seem to be a higher pitch?
The Xiao is most often a G key to start as is the Dizi (the horizontal flute). Although the Dizi is much higher pitched than the Xiao. Hope you enjoy them once they arrive!
This is all I was hoping for to stunble upon. I almost gave up because with one book in chinese that is on the internet, the resources in english are really scarce, so thanks for doing this and even thou you have almost no subscribers I beg you, please continue with this channel no matter what. Thanks
I am glad that you found the channel and that I can do my own small part to help! A lot still planned for WuDao!
Thank you so much! I fell in love with the sound of the xiao and was having so much difficulty finding resources for it! I do plan on learning Mandarin, but I wanted to start playing as soon as possible.
You are welcome! And welcome to the channel. There are a bunch of resources here, on the website, and in the discord channel. You are welcome to join us!
Hi, Jake! Thank for contributing your time and sharing your knowledge. What type of Xiao do you play at the entering title?
This is helpful, I bought a rosewood xiao 8 hole in f key. I used to play the saxophone but due to injury it was too heavy. I was trying to find some basic materials to help me learn on my own. The issue I have is the sound formation. It's more miss than hit at the moment
Yes, the first sounds need fine tuning at the very beginning. I have made some newer tutorials that go into a little more detail on this subject that you are welcome to check out.
Thanks very much for making the chooses easyli.
This is really helpful, thank you! I think I can now learn how to play xiao much more better than before.
I am very happy that these resources can help you!
Great information, including background and history. I got my first Xiao flute in G and am focusing on making those low and mid notes sound perfectly clear. Looking forward to moving through the tutorials (slowly but surely!). I had to re-watch the 'basic scale and notation' section about ten times but I'm getting there! Thank you for making this great content too.
You are very welcome! The notation takes a little while to click in. But once it sinks in, you will learn much faster.
Great video thank you
Cool. My Xião arrived today and it looks pretty cool. Now I'm trying to create a tone which is a little bit more difficult than I expected. But I'll get it by practice. As a child I learned to play recorder but I have no clear memory about this. Now I'm excited to start this musical experiment.
Awesome! Hope you enjoy the Xiao!
Thank you for such great information!!
I fell in love with the sound of the Shakuhachi. After searching around, I found that those are a bit expensive for me at the moment. I am thinking of starting something beginner level. After searching around, I see the Xiao has a similar sound, and could get something under $100 to begin with. I'm subscribing to your channel for once I buy it. I also love that you give these lessons.
Do you think It is ok starting with Xiao and then perhaps moving to Shakuhachi later? I might stay with Xiao in the end, but I don't know this at the moment, since I've never played them.
In two weeks me and my brother are going to get one this will be helpfull thanks
Awesome! Wish you the best of luck on your new journey! ;)
So glad I found your site, I have been attempting to learn the xiao for several years now with moderate success. Now I am really motivated. Your videos are excellent and easy to watch as your teaching style is so relaxed. Best regards, Jimp
Welcome! That is the whole inspiration for these videos and I am really happy that they have found their way to you! I hope your learning continues to grow!
Amazing!
Thank you!
Very nice video, I will search your channel for more videos like this. I definitely see this video as a potential series that captures a very niche and passionate market of xiao enthusiasts
Thank you!
Thank you very much. I have started a newer series for xiao tutorials to update this one. I hope you enjoy your journey with the xiao!
Thanks for teachinh us for free
Just sharing my own studies. ;) I am glad that they are helpful.
Thank you, your vidéo make me want to try the xiao so so much, I don’t know how to get a great one… but the sound is really really relaxing and I appreciate really much the video bc of the step by step!!
I just recently posted a video talking about how to pick a xiao: th-cam.com/video/MCBO2CfiLmk/w-d-xo.html
And I also have a few for sale in my discord channel. You can join for free through the links in the video description.
Thank you so sooo much for these amazing tutorials! I am practicing every day and love it very much. All due to your wonderful tutorials.
Awesome! So glad that they are helping!
Thank you for this resource!!
thank you very much for providing this material!
You're welcome! I hope it helps!
Finally! So glad I found your channel.
Me too! ;) Welcome. I hope these videos help.
Thanks. I got a xiao a while ago. I love the sound but could n't find a teacher or tutorials so I am verry glad you started this tutorials 😊. What I find difficult about the xiao is that somthimes I get a beautifull full sound and sometimes I don't. I cant find out what I am doing wrong or what I should adjust.
To get a stable sound you need to experiment with your embouchure (the way you blow into the flute). Make the air stream tighter and smaller and aim it by pulling the bottom lip in in small increments until you find the right balance point. The higher the pitch you are trying to play the "closer" the air stream should be to straight down in front of you. A common mistake to change pitch is to tilt the head forward and down. While this may work in a moment, it will not be consistent. Keep working on it and you will get it!
@@WuDaoMusic how do you articulate a note? I also play recorder and tin whistle. Is it also "tu" or "du" ?
@@naomiaudiffret1224 "Pu" is common in the beginning stages because the embouchure is adjusted with the lips. The "pu" sound sets you up well to do that. Although as you continue to play and do various techniques "tu" would fit better because continuous sound techniques and variations (like double tonguing and other flares) are accomplished with the tongue.
I would love an F key flute tutorial video. Thank you for your content, it is incredibly helpful.
You can play an F key flute with these tutorials no problem. There are slight differences in pitch as the lowest note is one step down. Although you can play as if the lowest note is the same and your songs will gain a little added depth. If you want to match the same tone as a G key flute you only need to play with the lowest note at 4 and you can adjust the songs up one finger pattern. I will be honest though that I don't do this. If you are playing for yourself, performing the songs in a deeper flute sounds very peaceful. I even play my D Key flute with a G fingering and it makes the songs very soothing. It is a very versatile instrument!
I paid $16 for a bamboo xiao in Chinatown here in Victoria BC. I figured it was a good starting point.
Good luck getting started! Once you get the hang of it, you can always upgrade.
This is absolutely amazing. This is exactly what I needed! Such a good teacher!!
I hope the tutorials help!
Thanks Sifu. Awesome introduction. Received my first G Xiao yesterday. Having difficulty to making sound, is it common? Would like more tips in blowing techniques.
Yes, it is common. It took me a week of daily practice to get a steady reliable sound. You will find that patience and prudence are very important as you train the embouchure. Even after a few years of practicing it is still the place that can always use improvement in the fine details. Watch through some videos. Specifically, #17 as it recaps a lot and there are details in the description for what each tutorial covers. Always revisit the basics!
@@WuDaoMusic thank you Sifu.. Good to know and will keep practice... Third day now and can sound several notes now.. .
Thanks for these videos!
You're welcome! I hope they help!
Thank you so much for your videos, Jake. I learned a lot about Xiao. I am playing Xiao right now, and I love it. More powers!
You're welcome! Keep playing!
Yes! I will. Thanks! Playing Wu Dao music brings relaxation to me.
Starting my Xiao journey today and will be following your videos avidly! Thanks for these! :)
You are welcome! I hope you enjoy them and they help your practice!
Thank you so much, I train with Master GU online I would like to train flute with your videos online.
So thank you Josephine🙏
You are welcome! I hope these series are helpful.
Very educational video, thank you! even it is not my native language but a how to play the xiao tutorials still are very rare. For a beginner like me its really difficult. Im so happy that I found that amazing instrument (instead of the Shakuhachi, which ist very popular here in germany. ) I have a G and F Xiao, but the F ist not good to play with small Hands, but i love the deeper sound TTvTT
You are welcome! 😀
The G key is the standard to begin with, but I also prefer the deeper sound of the F key (and below!)
I've been thinking about buying a xiao for a while. Thanks a lot for this thorough introduction: you answer many doubts I had in my mind. Do you know where I can buy a good xiao from china online? The only ones I find have carved poems and I would like to buy a simple one. Thank you!
If you are interested, I also have some flutes for sale from a maker here in China. Send an email to wudang.america@gmail.com or send me a DM on Facebook. There is a video on the WuDao Facebook channel demoing the flutes for sale.
@@WuDaoMusic I can't find the wudao facebook channel... Could you help me out?
@@alexardov facebook.com/wudaomusic/
Pitch bending?
...Thank you so much for teaching brother. Is pitch bending done by rolling fingers off the holes? Can emboucher bend notes too? Are there other pitch bending techniques for the xiao?
I ordered an 8 hole F...
Bending the pitch can be done with the embouchure unless you are just moving a single pitch like a movement in glissando. If you are just "bending" and raising or lowering a single pitch, this is done by a slow shift of the fingers. Bending the shape of the pitch to jump octaves or too add other effects is done with the mouth shape though.
God, I play it since about one year, never really cared about how it is played traditionally, now you telling me that it must be the ringfinger that stays on the flute all the time ;) actually bad, because you miss some extra notes keeping one or two holes closed. I really need to think if I will go and change my way of playing now. Thanks anyway, this is definitely the best introduction you can find on youtube!
Well that is only for playing the basic scale. Of course they are used occasionally for flats/sharps and different tunings. For the most part though you can play many tracks without ever using them.
Thanks so much, I'll try that.
Thank youu!
Hi Can you tell me do you do music notation so they can be printed out instead of it being on the screen, as can't find any , and also the fingering chart for Xiao Key G, or a link to find them.
I really like your channel it gives me some hope.
Julie
All of the notation is linked in each video description. There are fingering charts, practice drills, and full song notations available.
So well put together, finally getting into practising again. Material provided and explanation making this a much easier process. Thanks Jiaolian 🙏🏼
Awesome! Glad to hear that you are playing again!
Awesome tutorial series! I just ordered a Xiao and can't wait to start learning. Thank you for putting this all together!
I hope that it helps and you enjoy your new xiao!
I love your videos and want to buy a Xiao. Where is the best place to buy one that is of a reputable quality? Can’t wait to take lessons from your videos! Looking forward to your reply. Thanks Angelina
I am not sure as I have bought all of my flutes here in China. I do source xiao and sell them online and ship international, so that may be an option if you are interested.
@@WuDaoMusic Thanks for your reply Jake. I just found a Xiao maker before your reply. They are Bamboo Grove based in Shanghai. I bought a beginners Xiao in the key of G and a Nan Xiao in the key of F. I watch your videos yesterday and loved the key of F so I quickly made a switch from G to F for my Nan Xiao. I am looking forward to learn from your videos. Thank you so much for making these videos and in English too! ☺️
I also love the fact that your lessons are so clear, in both keys and provide the sheet music! Great videos! ❤️
@@m1sspiggy Excellent. Yea, they seem to have good stock. Someday I will have to get one and do a review on here. I am glad that you found a xiao!
Thanks a lot for this video ! When you're talking about the G flute, you start with a "G" but actually its an "A". So if I understand, we have to think a Major Second up when we are writing for the G Xiao ?
I am not the best person to ask on this. But yes, on the G key flute, the "G" is centralized on the 3rd full note up (Do or 1). But the lowest note is actually D. I write and read all of my notation in jian pu which is the Chinese standard number notation. It is very simple, but it allows one to cut quite a few corners in actual music theory. XD
@@WuDaoMusic Ok thank you ! :)
Thank you for sharing this valuable information! Just one comment regarding the study material - the Word documents are not displayed correctly, probably it requires a special font to be added. Is it possible to add a PDF for Basic Drills - Pattern Practice.docx? Thank you!
Oh yea. You might have to have a specific font. I will go back and edit those into pdfs. Thanks!
I just got back and uploaded the pdf version. Thank you for finding this! I must have missed it when I uploaded initially. It should be there now.
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you!
Hi Jake, I've received my Xiao today and am so excited to start practicing. At the moment I've just got one question. How do I look after my Xiao after playing it for a while (there must be moisture inside) and also what about a regular maintenance (oiling?)? Thank you very much for you fantastic introduction. Ruth
Awesome! As far as maintenance, unless you are in a really dry climate you shouldn't need to oil it. The best is to store it in a stable environment. I don't always wrap my xiao in a case unless I am not playing it for a while. Especially if there is moisture buildup you do not want to put it directly in a case. This will cause mold. The key with all maintenance is to allow the xiao to adjust slowly from storage to playing and from climate to climate.
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you very much, Jake. I'm leaving my Xiao out. Whenever I see it and have time, I'm practicing the scale you are recommending. I'll get there slowly. Thanks again. Ruth
I just ordered an 8-hole ABS resin xiao from china because I'm afraid bamboo would crack in dry, cold climate. Anyway, these videos are gonna be huge help, thank you for making these!
You're very welcome! I hope you enjoy your practice!
I'd been dreaming of having my own Xiao for a while cause they are pretty expensive for me. But I finally got one a few weeks ago. I technically do pretty "okay" job on the start. Maybe it's because I already play Dizi so the way to make chinese wind instrument make "sound" is not a real big surprise for me.
However, I find my self a couple or so problems and it would be a big hand if you could help me by any chances.
My first problem is I have a problem with making the note low G (or the note 5 with dot underneath) I found it's so much breathcomsuming for a weak girl like me I feel like my breath could not even reach the pinky finger And feel like I'm going to pass out trying to play the note. It kind of weird for me as I handle the note low A, the note straightly *next to* it, pretty well. Do you have any idea about it or what should I do on this? It's quite ridiculous for me that I can't even play Happy birthday!
Second is I have a problem of changing octaves. May I mention obout Dizi a bit; the wayof changing octaves in Dizi is to change the angle of the input wind to the mouthpiece hole. But in Xiao I could not find a full complete tutorial on how to change octaves loe middle high (or maybe there might be some but, my knowledge about Xiao is too little to self-learn from them) Could you please hand me some help?
Will look forward for your reply!
Big big big thank you!!!
Awesome! Welcome to the Xiao fam.
The low notes on the xiao are tricky for everyone when they first get started. There are a combination of different approaches, but basically you need to blow more downwards but without changing the angle of the flute itself too much. This just takes practice finding the sensitivity without overblowing. For switching octaves it can actually be approached just like the dizi and alter the angle as you change but it is better to adjust the size of the embouchure. As you get higher the lips get smaller thus narrowing the air stream into the flute. Also angling slightly upwards as you go higher will help to "cut" the note and get the really high notes.
There are new tutorials coming out soon and I will have to make one more dedicated to this.
@@WuDaoMusic Sounds a bit complex for a complete newbie like me, LoL.
Still so kind of you trying to explain all to me. I really apreciate that!
I'll try to practice using the guide you gave, hopefully would succeed 😂, while looking forward to your upcoming tutorial. Thank you!!
Hello, beautiful videos, Thanks for sharing.
Where could one purchase these kind of instruments ? How would you know if it's a quality instrument while buying online ?
Thanks!
Thank you! I actually just shared a video demoing some xiao for sale right now. You can check them out at th-cam.com/video/gX50V7PRTNw/w-d-xo.html
Buying a xiao comes down to a lot of factors. Playability and tuning are the most important.
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you for your reply. I enjoy watching your videos.
Excellent introduction, thank you! If you are living on Wudang mountain I suppose you might have enough amount of time to write your own version of xiao tutorial for English world or translate a Chinese book for that purpose, or even write a book about your story in China, that would be interesting, and make some money at the same time, win win. I wish you have a wonderful time in China and.....oh I almost forgot, why not learn some Chinese painting, the one behind you looks really great
I have actually begun some of these projects. I have a podcast for my experiences and stories. Someday I will write it out. And I have been considering writing out my own English xiao practice book. Painting however, I only dabbled in. Music is more my art form of choice. ;)
This is great! Is there sheet music for xiao anywhere that you know about? Or even traditional Chinese flute music (for xiao) in standard notation?
Check out the description for every video on this channel. ;) There are a few websites but they are all in Chinese and it can be difficult to find what you are looking for.
@@WuDaoMusic Thanks so much! It's so kind of you to do this.
Thanks a lot is a. very nice video and motivates me to start with my Xiao that it has being sleeping for a while. Just a question, the notation sheet you have in your web is kind of different with the drawings of the notation you show in here. I guess is not included the holes that have to be always closed right? Because it makes me doubt if I am doing the scale correctly. So for starting I am having as a reference the video but if I go to the scale sheet in your web pages, I kind of not get it. :) But otherwise thanks a lot hope to continue looking at more videos.
For the finger patterns, the sheet on the website is copied from a textbook. It is the standard however, there are a few notes especially when you get to the high octave that can be played differently and a lot easier. Use the ones from the video as those are the same I use. It is a good idea to copy them down and commit them to memory. Once you have this it is a lot easier to learn new tracks. The only thing that I don't cover in the videos is the half notes (flats and sharps and the like). Those are on the website but are seldom used so for the videos I only work with the main notes.
Any resources for a finger chart for an f xiao for the upper octave/harmonics? Can't figure it out on my own. Thanks
Thank you so much for this introductory video! I have a quick question. Do you have tips for breathe control when practicing the Xiao? I think I’m doing something incorrectly because I get lightheaded when practicing. Thank you! :)
I talk about some details in this video:
th-cam.com/video/c24rzfXrOmY/w-d-xo.html
This is part of an updated series of tutorials for the xiao.
I see. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos and help fellow xiao learners. :) @@WuDaoMusic
Great introduction to the Xiāo! I’m really interested in learning to play it. The problem is that I’d like to learn to play the Qínxiāo because at some point I maybe want to learn to play the Gǔqín, too and make recordings with both of them. You said that it’s very difficult to play the Qínxiāo, however, I found a website that sells one that says that it’s “easy to play”. Now I’m confused a little bit to be honest. Do you think that I still could try the Qínxiāo?
BTW, my Tàijíquán teacher Ingo plays the Xiāo, too. 😊
Dongxiao is fine with guqin, you just need to play softly at times. Although, a lot of performance and recording is done with dongxiao because the volume levels can be controlled externally. Qinxiao is much harder for most people because the airstream has to be very precise and the flute itself is very narrow and small which makes it harder to maintain a comfortable position for some people.
I think a business will say that everything is easy to play. Maybe so, maybe not. In my experience, dongxiao are easier to begin with though it depends on each person.
And yes, Ingo is doing online lessons with me. ;)
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you very much for your advice! I’ll buy a Dòngxiāo then.
Ingo told me yesterday that he’s your student (which I didn’t know before). He says that lessons are important and that you also teach the aspect of breath cultivation when playing the Xiāo which sounds very interesting to me. I already play some Irish whistles and I used the piper’s grip on my old low whistle so maybe that might help as well.
@@ZengHuaXiansheng Very good! If you ever need any help finding a dongxiao or would like to have private lessons, let me know.
@@WuDaoMusic Thanks, I definitely consider taking lessons from you. I already ordered a Dòngxiāo, will get it from my parents as a birthday gift. 😊
I may have missed this, but some of the fingerings on the higher notes are the same as on the lower. Such as low-6 and mid-6. How do I make the higher note? Also, when I do the fingerings for high-4 and high-5 I don't hear a difference. What's going wrong for me on those higher notes? Thanks for these videos!
Between each register (low-middle-high) you need to adjust the embouchure. Specifically, you will need to tighten the air flow. At first it will be easier to make the higher pitches by blowing stronger but you really want to be able to use minimal force. For the high register, there are different finger patterns that make it easier. I will be doing a tutorial to explain this in more detail soon.
Got my xiao from a musician friend. However it has 6 holes not eight. Any chance there is any sheet music for a 6-holes xiao to get acquainted with?
Hmm. You can play all of the same sheet music but you will have to search for a finger chart for 6 hole flute. The finger patterns are different but you can read the same music. Some things may be more difficult to play because you may need more complicated positions like half holes and such.
One question I have about the Xiao as a flute maker: Why the heck do so many Xiaos have such a long part of them down at the bottom? I don't believe that they form a real part of the primary air column in a functional musical sense. Why is there so much extra length down at the bottom? Sure doesn't help when you're trying to pack a Xiao into a suitcase! I have been seeking an answer to this question, but so far, I have obtained none.
I just got this question on a recent video as well. It is partly aesthetics and partly for increasing the volume and resonance of the xiao. Functionally it doesn't make that much of a difference, as I have played much shorter xiao that have an equal amount of power, but it does seem to increase volume to a degree. This helps one to play, and hear, the low notes on a lower key xiao. For example, my D key xiao is gigantic and the extra length feels like boosts the volume of the deepest notes. However, I am not a xiao craftsman so I cannot absolutely say why it is this way.
@@WuDaoMusic Thanks. The answer was good and reasonable enough, and I think I'll accept it.
I think my flute is broken haha the 'DO' doesnt seem to work. like the second from bottom hole doesnt seem to make any difference unless the holes above are covered
Hmm. As you raise in pitch the above notes do need to be covered. I have some fingering charts on my website (www.waysofwudang.com/how-to-read-jian-pu) however they only show the true pitch not the actually fingering position that you may have to use. I do a walkthrough on this video: th-cam.com/video/mRzreEDqlMg/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for the tutorials - I also am having a hard time getting consistently a good tone out of the Xiao. Although I am just starting - and I am finding that unless I look at myself in the mirror I cannot visualize (or feel) where I need to place the hole. I also find that the only way at the moment where I can get a consistent note on the lower register is to really relax my lips/mouth - or otherwise as I try the fingering which covers more holes, I just get the higher octave notes ....
Any additional advice you may have for us would be greatly appreciated, the fingering for the flute looks easy enough, but it's really getting it to sound right seem to be the tough part. (recorders are, like, so easy by comparison!)
Awesome! Yes, when I first started it took quite some time to get a consistent sound. Even now I have to take a moment to adjust when I switch between flutes. I tried to go over different breathing techniques throughout the series. So some videos have other explanations about to improve the embouchure. I am thinking that I will return soon and upload some more basic videos with training details and little tricks. Keep practicing and focus on making the air stream more precise. You will be surprised how little of pressure and size you really need for a clear pitch.
@@WuDaoMusic thank you, yes trying t o get better and practicing at least daily a bit to get sounds out of the instrument!
@@WuDaoMusic hi sifu, would very much appreciate a video dedicated to embouchure and blowing techniques. I'm having trouble getting any sound beyond the do (and the do is very wobbly at that). but will keep practicing. thank you for the videos!
@@hayi8957 On it!
Hi! I’ve been watching your videos a lot and they’ve been so helpful thank you so much! The only thing Is I can only get the highest octave and the lowest octave on my Xiao flute but I can never seem to get the middle one do you have any tips to help me?
Hmm. That is interesting. You may just be over adjusting and jumping up too quickly. Do not blow too hard as you raise the pitch from the lower register. It is a very fine difference. If you can hear a lot of extra "wind" around your central pitch you could be overblowing as well. This will make it difficult to fine tune your playing. Try to play with a soft volume and take your time as you "climb" into the middle notes.
Thank you for your great tutorial. 🙏🙏🙏🎶 I have a question, maybe you can help me. :) Normally I am playing Bansuri, but now I wanted to try the Xiao. I have one here which has only 5 holes on the front and one on the back... The space between the holes is veeery much bigger than on your flutes. For me it's not a big problem because on bass Bansuris it's the same, but... I am confused. 😄 I have asked Google and read that a Xiao traditionally has five holes, like mine. In your video I learned that it has more than five... The point is, I am thinking about buying a better, more expensive one, and before doing this, I would like to understand this hole-thing. 😄 Maybe you can help me? Many greetings! 🙋☀️☀️☀️
Yes, Xiao come with 5, 6, and 8 holes. However, 5 holes is probably either a nan xiao or a chiba (shakuhachi). With this there may be many notes that you need to play with a half hole covered (hence the bigger holes). For modern xiao playing, the best would be an 8 holed xiao. This gives you the easiest fingering patterns. I hope this helps!
@@WuDaoMusic yes, this helps a lot. :) Thank you!
Amazing video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us, do you have any recommendations for online sellers? I am looking to buy my first Xiao but there aren’t many music stores where I live. Your content is awesome I can’t wait to see more of it!
Thanks! I have a few xiao for sale from a maker here in China. We ship international and can work with you to find something that you like. Check out the WuDao Facebook page to see a demo of some that I have on hand now and send a DM to get started!
got a xiao in F, is the notation adaptable?
Yes. You can play all of the same music just with a lower tuning. Keep the regular finger patterns.
Thank you for your videos! When I blow (with no holes covered), it just makes a high-pitched, airy tone. I'm thinking I'm just exciting the higher register but I can't seem to get the strong, sustained mid-register sort of note that you do. Any tips?
Try correcting the angle of the flute. It sounds like you could be either raising your chin too much or dropping the flute too low. Either one will make it easier for you to jump up higher in pitch.
@@WuDaoMusic thank you very much!
Hello! Unfortunately, I don't speak English well, and I don't understand what you are talking about in the video. Can you explain in text what the symbols (dots, curves, sticks) mean in sheet music? Then I can translate your text and understand it.
Thank you for sharing this with us! I'm a guitarplayer who recently started to play Guqin and Dizi. Recently I've been looking at "Bass key" Dizi for example the G bass Dizi. I like the sound more than the hightone Dizi, but I think I like the sound of Xiao more. Is the G key Xiao about the same range as a Bass G Dizi? Do you think Xiao is harder or easier to learn than Dizi?
Awesome! Some say the Xiao is harder than the Dizi, but I believe it is the other way around. The basics for the Dizi are harder. The range for the G Xiao is lower than Dizi. Somewhat comparable to the bass Dizi. Whereas the fingering is easier on the Xiao. I hope you enjoy the tutorials! Still more coming!
@@WuDaoMusic I just bought a G-key Xiao and I´m in love with it. Personally I think it is easier to play the Xiao than the Dizi. Excited to learn this instrument.
Hey, thank you so much for sharing your videos as there's not much material on this instrument :) I just received my xiao the other day. Can you tell me how to switch between the lower, middle and upper registers of the instrument? Is is a matter of fingering or positioning of the air stream? Thank you again.
Awesome! Glad to help someone starting off with their new Xiao! In the videos I get to this I think episode #3,7, and 15. The pitch changes are both through embouchure (lip seal/blowing technique) and finger patterns. Focus on the low and middle octaves first. The high register has different finger patterns. The ones that I recommend are on my website and through the links under each video. Check those out!
@@WuDaoMusic thank you so much for getting back to me! I'll continue along the tutorial videos then and keep working at it. I'm thankful I found your channel :)
Where should we go to buy a high end Xiao in the US?
Unfortunately, I have sourced all of my flutes in China and I am not familiar with US sellers. I do have xiao for sale that I ship internationally. There are demo videos in our Discord server (link in description)
I guess I can play your music on my tenor recorder, but a Voiceflute recorder would match your flute better?
Hmm. You can play this music on any instrument really, but the best is always a Xiao. ;)
@@WuDaoMusic When I compare the sound of our flutes, it sounds the same when I move down one note on mine compared to yours, so your 3 is a "A" om the tenor, (and 2=G, 1=F, 7.=E, 6.=D and 5.=C). The tenor is tuned to 442Hz, maybe your is tuned to another frequency? So now that I have figured that out, it will be exciting trying your music ;-)
@@Aniara64 This flute may not be perfectly in tune. They tend to be a little on the flat side. That and I think my ear is too. ;)
I might have missed this somewhere, but Fa 4 has the same fingering notation as Sol * 5. Is that accurate or is there something else to it?
The fingering position is different. You can see a chart here: www.waysofwudang.com/how-to-read-jian-pu
Thank you for this great tutorial!!! One question...my sound production is very breath expensive. I can only play two or three notes. What am I missing there? Thank you!
You might be "leaking" air around the seal of the flute or breathing too high and creating tension in the chest. These are the two most common. For the leaking and wasting air, you really just have to spend time working on the embouchure and continue to get it tighter and more efficient with placement and size. For breath length, most often new students breath high and in the chest. Instead focus on dropping the diaphragm and breathing more to the belly keeping the shoulders relaxed as you do this. The breath should be more consistent, smooth, and longer when you do this.
@@WuDaoMusic Will practice that for sure! Many thanks for your kind reply)
Hi there, it's Dat again.
Question: how would you play the c-sharp in the first scale or octave? I'm talking from G xiao perspective. My g flute, when I let go of all the holes, it's a c natural. Thought I let you know.
Thank you.
If all of the holes are uncovered that should be the c sharp position. You may be tucking your chin in and dropping the head too low to get the natural. If you want the sharp keep your head up or slightly adjust the angle of the flute and you should here it gets a little sharper.
where can I buy a xiao flute?
I have purchased all of my in person while travelling in China or on TaoBao. Although, I know of diziflute.com that other have bought from. Their website has some material but contact them directly and you can get something arranged.
This is a maker in the United States that sells xiao's. I have one and like it a lot, but his xiao's are expensive. This is Geoffery Ellis Flutes whose web site is at www.ellisflutes.com/world-flutes/xiao
Hey Jake, thanks A LOT, your videos are a massive help for me in order to learn the Xiao. It's really difficult to find proper video learning material. :)
I am an absolute beginner and I am just wondering how I differentiate between La Xi Do Re Mi in the lower scale and La Xi Do Re Mi in the middle/higher scale while playing, because the fingering for those notes are exactly the same, am I right? I can play from the lowest Sol to the middle Sol, and after that the fingering repeats for La etc., I don't get how you play the higher notes. Is it a different breath I need to use?
Looking forward to your help!
Thanks a lot!
Hello! Glad that you found the channel and it is helpful in your practice. As the notes get higher in pitch, the blowing must be adjusted slightly. Think of it as the higher you get, the closer the blowing gets to your body. A trick to think about it blow air over the back of your hand. Without moving your hand or head, adjust the pressure and angle of the air coming out to go from the far side of your hand (low notes) to the close side (higher notes). When you play the xiao this is what you should be doing. This adjustment is made by slightly frowning and pulling the bottom lip "in". It will definitely take a little time to get tuned in to the exact position, but this should help you find the right sound. Good luck and keep practicing!
@@WuDaoMusic I see! This sounds like practicing, practicing, practicing. This was a very nice explanation, thanks for your fast answer! And the trick and visualization with the back of the hand and breath flow from the far side to the close side is soo helpful.
Gonna watch all your tutorials and thanks for being such a nice teacher for me and also for other people around the world :)
@@WuDaoMusicI guess that, for xiao, the mechanism in producing a sound is by the resonance of the instrument when an air stream presses on a particular spot of the circular inner wall of the instrument. A player can adjust the pressure of the air stream by (1) adjusting the embrochure (風門）, (2) the angle of attack of the air stream on the inner wall, and (3) the amount of air pressure via the lower abdomen (丹田 )。
In dizi, the sound is produced via the vibration of the dizi membrane. The membrane has a different density from the other parts of the instrument. Hence, an equal dose of air pressure can produce a much more "piercing" sound in dizi than in xiao.
I've been practicing playing the xiao for several weeks now. Is it normal to have aching wrist after practicing for a while? 😭
In the beginning it is super common to be over "squeezing" the flute and have a tense grip. This will go away once you get accustomed to playing. However, if it persists, you should take a close look at how you are holding the flute. If your wrists are not flat, elbows too close to the body, or knuckles are not flat, these could all put unnecessary pressure on the wrists.
Thanks a lot! I absolutely love your channel❤️🙏
I am shakuhachi player and I ordered a closed mouthpiece style Xiao in F....I am quite surprised that it can playe all the notes except the B. So the highest note on the first register is a Bb and the lowest one on the higher register (every holes closed) a C. Is it normal or is there a problem with my Xiao ?
Yes, the xiao is quite versatile. B can be played, just remove all of the fingers except 2nd and 6th holes (counting from the lowest note). Otherwise that is pretty much right.
do you play dizi too? if yes, I need intro and tutorials
That is one I haven't truly started. I am dreading the basics and the inevitable pain it will cause my neighbors. XD
can I ask which type of flute is the easier to start with? dizi, xiao or Shakuhachi.Thanks
I would personally say the Xiao is best to start with. Dizi basics can be quite difficult and the shakuhachi has so much variety in the embouchure. I mainly play Xiao and am just beginning the Shakuhachi so I can only say from my experience so far though. The best is to start whichever you are the most interested in. Even though the dizi and shakuhachi may be more difficult, good basics will always be a huge benefit later on. Whatever you do, make sure you dedicate plenty of time to them!
@@WuDaoMusic Thank you so much..funny how it went, I kept my wish to start playing flute in my heart for months.....life went on....till I found a Wudang Daoist accademy in Purple Cloud Temple in Wudang mountains, learning Taiji, Qigong, and most important Daoism...and here I am again ready to take on flute. Thank you so much for your precious words.
@@rockoramadevil awesome! glad that the winds of life brought you here. ;)
thouhg having some mistakes about xiao, but beautiful , and very good playing for a foreigner.
xiao is not widely popular in China, the most popular one is in effect, dizi, and in China, learning dizi is basically learning xiao, but not the oppopsite, because the difficulties are totally different. and the formation are all been modified from ancient ones. and the origins were traced back to Jiahu, 8000 years ago. Xiao is purely a musical instrument from Han, dizi isn't. Tang shakuhachi, is 6 holes, has nothing to do with the Japanese ones, there is no confirmed history in Japan to suggest they are from us, not mentioning the original songs are not ever a little like a piece of chinese traditional music. But Japan invaded Korea , and smuggle lots of artisans , guess whose flutes are five holes? Korea. and 8 holes can play both traditonal music and modern ones, that's why xiao is eight holes. and 8 holes dizi or 9 holes dizi cann'ot play traditional songs well, that's why dizi is still 6 holes or seven holes.
and about why it is G tone, is because what we call" tongyin", tong is "zhu tong", if you cover all the finger holes, it is a "zhu tong", a bamboo stem, the sound it produces , we call "tong" sound. the most used tong sound is sol, that's why and then the fourth hole (dizi) 's actually sound ( dol) is the tone in piano.
different blowing holes have different timbre, so every one of them is unique, we have blowing holes that having a cover( more less these days), without one, u cut, V cut, UV cut, Tang cut( shakuhachi 's blowing hole), so Tang shakuhachi is more capable with 8 holes. But in Japan , they use 7 holes or 9 holes to record some shakuhachi music, but the formation is failed to be popular . And they still play 5 holes.
in winter u need to always have a humidifier to maintain the humidity , keep them over 50% , to ensure they don't crack. the better ones, are more easy to crack.
Thank you. Yes, this is a old tutorial. I have updated the series, but this one still gets a lot of traffic.
Do you sell these instruments ?
Yes, there are some for sale and I do live streams when I get new inventory in. (I am not the maker though) facebook.com/wudaomusic/ On the most recent post I demo different xiaos. There are still some G, E, and one F key flute available for sale.
I think a Nan Xiao is what I'm after
I don't have any nanxiao in inventory right now. But I can place orders.
Oh... I was hoping that there is a higher scale... 2 octaves for a instrument is a really small scale. I can't play most of the songs using Xiao. That is really disappointing...
Xiao can play 3 registers (low, middle, and high). For a wood wind, that is quite a bit of range. Granted it is limited when compared to a piano, stringed instruments, or singing. Overall you can get quite a bit of variety out of it though.
@@WuDaoMusic I watched the video. But I'm used to more recent instruments, like piano, violin, trumpet, which I play. They have much wider scale. Even flute (I mean regular flute played in orchestras) has much wider scale. I was just hoping there is something beyond what I can play. But even a little piece that I wanted to play is still a tone too low or a few tones too high to play on xiao (depending in which octave is start to play it, and yes, I got it in the right tune. I think this piece is for dizi flute, but I don't own one :c). That's why I watched the video. To check out if I can play higher or lower than what I already learned. I think your video is really good, I was just disappointed that I can't play more notes on xiao
@@gziaki6520 Yea. Definitely less than orchestra instruments. A dizi might be more in your alley then. It has a little more range than a xiao. But an extended range would require more than one flute. There are higher notes than what I go to because they get very complicated and most of the Chinese music doesn't go that far with the flutes. Maybe check out a dizi finger chart. :)