The Dranyen (a traditional Tibetan musical instrument), which means "melodious and pleasing sound" in Tibetan and is also known as the six-stringed lute, is a commonly used plucked string instrument in traditional Tibetan songs and dances. The craftsmanship involved in making a Dranyen is complex. It requires separate fabrication of the soundbox, neck, and head of the instrument, as well as the selection of materials such as sheep intestine, cow tendon, and silk threads to make the strings. Finally, decorative elements in the shapes of horse heads, dragon heads, flames, etc., are carved to give the Dranyen its unique character. 

Photo: Chinanews.com

Editor: Pan Lu, Zhi Xinghua

Translator: Peng Qing, Liu Fang

Review: Dong Xiuli, Pan Lu