xiao (Chinese traditional bamboo flute)

The xiao is a traditional Chinese vertical bamboo flute known for its mellow, expressive sound. Typically made from bamboo, it features holes along its length that players cover and uncover to produce different pitches. The xiao is used in classical Chinese music, rituals, and folk performances, valued for its ability to convey subtle emotional nuances. Its design allows for a rich, warm tone, and skilled players can produce both gentle melodies and more lively passages. The instrument's simplicity in construction belies its expressive capability, making it an enduring symbol of Chinese musical heritage.