Percussion Instruments

Gong

A gong is a flat, circular plate of metal, sometimes with slight curves to accent the sound it produces. When struck with a heavy mallet, the plate vibrates and produces a potent, metallic 'clang', with a tendency to echo. They are found in two basic types, the large 'logong' and smaller 'higong', each with an intensity proportional to its size.

In Dynastic society, the gong is rarely played as a performance instrument. It is instead a tool of 'announcement'... when presented at the Imperial Court, a new arrival's entry is marked first by the sounding of a gong, followed by the presentation of their names and titles by a court herald. The arrival of the Scarlet Empress was also announced by a special Logong, a heavy octagonal plate mounted on a wheeled frame, struck with a small battering ram in the hands of eight Silent Legionnaires. Production of a larger gong than that of the Scarlet Empress is illegal in the Realm.

Wood Egg

The Wood Egg is a simple instrument from the late Shogunate era. It is carved from a block of wood, with a hollow interior. When struck with a wooden mallet, it produces a dull wooden sound. The instrument is properly used as part of a five-piece set, with varying diameters producing different tones. The Eggs are often carved with decorations: in areas beyond Immaculate reach, fish remain a popular theme, while on the Blessed Isle they usually recieve elemental imagery or representations of the Immaculate Dragons. The Immaculate Order makes use of Eggs to accompany certain ceremonies and meditative chants.

Pengling

Two small bells, made of high-tin bronze, without internal clappers, bottomless and gourd-like in shape. They are connected by a chain or piece of string, and often cast with decorative patterns on the surface. In performance the player, with one bell in each hand, strikes them together at the rim. The instrument has a delicate, clarion and melodious tone. It is a coloring rhythmic instrument, meant to accompany other sounds rather than lead on its own, and is said to bring an effect of peaceful dreams.

Bangu Drum

A drum of wooden wedges, wrapped together with a metal band. The body is left fully open at the bottom, while the top is solid and covered with cowhide, save for a small convex opening. This opening, the 'Drum's Heart', is the area a musician strikes with bamboo sticks to produce a solid sound.

Cymbals

Two large, slightly concave brass plates, fitted with leather hand straps. Played by striking the two plates against one another. The instrument is clear and forceful in tone quality, and often used in theatre performances to represent the clash of blades during mock-battle.

Temple Bell

A heavy metal bell, suspended in a wooden frame. A heavy wooden log, suspended by a pulley near the bell, is swing against it in order to produce a deep and echoing sound which calls Immaculate monks to prayer or meals.