This textbook on playing the yangqin, is one volume in the Easy Steps to Chinese Music series. This volume is the fruit of joint efforts by the authors, based on various textbooks and years of experience in cross-cultural communication. Simplicity with good focus, brief and effective explanations, the selected pieces introduce hammering and performance techniques as demonstrated in famous compositions from home and abroad. This enables an easier understanding of the musical language and artistic expression of the yangqin.

A total of eight lectures in two units are devoted to representative compositions for the traditional Chinese yangqin. Their focus is on style. A total of twelve lectures in three units are devoted to yangqin ensemble musical performances, and how the instrument best blends with others. Five solo pieces have been selected. Melodious and dynamic, they eloquently express the unique style and artistic charm of the Chinese yangqin. Video explanations of performance techniques are included for ease of understanding, correct technique learning, and to aid practice.