It is a pear-shaped lute with a history of more than 2,000 years. The modern Pipa 24 frets. Its four strings are tuned to A, D, E, and a, covering a tonal range of 3-1/2 octaves. Strumming or plucking the strings with plectra on the fingers plays it.

It is two-stringed Chinese violin with a history of about 1,000 years. It is played with a bow passing between the strings. Usually the strings are tuned to D and a, and cover a tonal range of three octaves. It is the leading instrument in ensemble playing.