The pipa is a lute-like instrument with a history of more than two thousand years. During the Qin and Han Dynasties in China, instruments with long, straight-necks and round resonators with snake skin or wooden sound boards were played with a forward and backward plucking motion that sounded like “pi” and “pa” to fanciful ears. Hence, all plucked instruments in ancient times were called “pipa.” The modern pipa’s many left and right hand fingering techniques, rich tonal qualities and resonant timbre give its music expressiveness and beauty which are lasting and endearing. On this recording, virtuoso Wu Man performs pieces showcasing the remarkable musical range of the pipa, from traditional styles to wonderful new melodies.