Guqin is Suitable for Self Entertainment

Compared with other stringed instruments, such as the guzheng, the guqin is of a smaller size and has a thinner board. There is a thick layer of lacquer on the surface of the guqin.So, the sound played by the guqin is softer than that played by the 8uzheng. The timbre of guqin is low and a little bit oppressive. However, as long as people listen carefuly, they will find that it sounds firm and melodic, similar to the sound of musical bells and stones, or quiet and sweet,like the sound of a vertically played flute. In a word, it has special characteristics. Speaking to the functions of the guqin,it is a tool for self-entertainment rather than for pleasing others. 

It is not suitable for playing in front of many people.Chuang-Tzu (Zhuang Zi) once said, "By playing the qin, one can please himnself (herself)." Other people consider playing the guqin as a way for self-entertainment and self-cultivation. In essence,the guqin can be compared to a hermit who is introverted and thoughtful. The guqin was popular among scholars, as they improved and cultivated themselves by playing it. Before playing the guqin,the players would first wash their hands, preen their clothes and burn some incense. 

Then they played the guqin not only for music,but also for harmony between human beings and nature. The ancients thought that, to listen to music was like reading the feelings and intentions of a person. The qin was like a mirror,which reflected the inner feelings of people. The songs and postures for playing the guqin can help us understand a person well.