Bianzhong (Chime-bell, Serial Bell) is an ancient Chinese musical instrument consisting of a set of bronze bells played melodically. Its long history dates back to the Shang Dynasty, when a set of three bronze bells was common. The bells were hung in a wooden frame and struck with. Along with the stone chimes called bianqing, they were important instruments in China's ritual and court music going back to ancient times.
The largest set ever seen was excavated from the tomb of Zenghou Yi (曾候乙, Zēnghóu Yǐ, the 5th century BC, a Warring State high official) in Hubei Province. It consists of 64 bells hung in three rows. This finding has become a focus of international academic attention.
Several sets of bianzhong were sent to the Korean court during the Song Dynasty. Known in Korea as pyeonjong, the instrument is still used in Korean court music. A similar instrument in Japan is called the hensho.
The largest set ever seen was excavated from the tomb of Zenghou Yi (曾候乙, Zēnghóu Yǐ, the 5th century BC, a Warring State high official) in Hubei Province. It consists of 64 bells hung in three rows. This finding has become a focus of international academic attention.
Several sets of bianzhong were sent to the Korean court during the Song Dynasty. Known in Korea as pyeonjong, the instrument is still used in Korean court music. A similar instrument in Japan is called the hensho.