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Beijing musician works to sustain traditional Chinese suona instrument

cultural-heritage · 2026-03-24

Zhou Dongchao, a master of the suona instrument in Beijing, has dedicated nearly five decades to performing and safeguarding this traditional Chinese musical device. The suona produces distinctive high-pitched tones commonly featured in China's classical music repertoire. Zhou's efforts focus on preventing the decline of this culturally significant instrument.

Key facts

  • Zhou Dongchao is a suona master based in Beijing
  • He has played the suona for approximately 50 years
  • The suona creates unique high-pitched sounds in traditional Chinese music
  • Zhou is working to preserve this instrument
  • The suona is considered a distinctive element of China's musical heritage

Entities

Artists

  • Zhou Dongchao

Locations

  • Beijing
  • China

Sources