Research Trends in the Historical Traditions of Yoching

Abstract

The yoching (yangqin–in Chinese) is a percussion-stringed musical instrument, which is one of the musical instruments that has been handed down across continents, with about 150 stringed and trapezoidal shapes from an ancient stringed instrument. Researchers from some West and East Asian countries explain the root tradition of yoching and similar instruments in connection with the history and culture of their own countries, while most researchers from Europe and the West agree with the concept that they have been handed down through traditions acquired in any country. The purpose of our current study is to analyze and outline the concept of researchers about the roots and acquired traditions of yoching-like musical instruments in the places where they are found in 60 countries around the world. The origin of yoching-like instruments has always been the focus of researchers of any nation, and although it has intensified since the 20th century, it has not been confirmed or proven today, but researchers often explain it in connection with land and sea borders communication, and with the culture of refugees and nomads. Generally, the research trends have been expressed based on the following concepts: I. In terms of distribution, it is related to Persian culture; II. In terms of making music, it is related to historical findings; III. From the point of designation, it is related to the root tradition; IV. From the ethnic point of view, it is culturally related to nomads and refugees.