Similar Opera Forms

One difference between kunqu opera and jingju opera is the structure of the melodic ensemble within the orchestra.  In kunqu the main melodic instrument used is the dizi. The dizi provides a mild, gentle sound which supporting the vocalists.  In the first few minutes of the opera “1699” the dizi supports the actors in their singing of budding love.  Jingju melodic ensembles make use of the jinghu. This high-pitched lute, according to Lau is what makes jingju music distinguishable from music of kunqu and yueju opera (Lau 70).

                Both kunqu and jingju make use of percussion instruments in order to emphasize particular body movements and expressions of words.  The percussion section helps in transitions between scenes, by playing interludes. An example of this is seen in “1699” at minute 54 as scene changes and actors leave stage, and different actors come to take their places.