Bells were among the first metal objects created in China. Beginning over 3,500 years ago, small, primitive noisemakers grew into gongs and evolved into sets of hand bells for playing melodies. Further centuries of technological experimentation resulted in more sophisticated bells that produced two pitches when struck in different spots.
Variations in size, shape, decoration, and sound also reveal regional differences across north and south China. By the late Bronze Age, large sets of tuned bells were played in ensemble performances in both areas. Cast from bronze, these durable bells preserve valuable information about the character of early Chinese music.
Today, Smithsonian researchers use digital technology to explore these ancient instruments and to explain their acoustical properties. To bring the bells to life, three composers were commissioned to create soundscapes using the recorded tones of a 2,500-year-old bell set on display. Each of them also produced a video projection to interpret his composition with moving images that allow us to “see sound.”
Experiment with virtual bells and see ancient bells being played at the Resound: Ancient Bells of China exhibit, now through July 5, 2021, at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery. The museum is open daily 10:00am through 5:30pm. Admission is free.
Keep exploring.
To bring China’s ancient bell culture into the twenty-first century, the Smithsonian commissioned three composers to create illustrated soundscapes that make inventive use of the sounds of a six-bell set. Meet the artists and hear their submissions.
Make your own music! Tap the bells and "see sound" in an interactive workshop.
Image credit: Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.
