The Kyey se (“kyeezee”) gong is also sometimes called the “Burmese bell”. It is a flat, triangular solid brass gong which appears in many ensemble performances in different shapes and sizes. It can also be found in ceremonial use in temples, or even with monks when they walk down the streets in the morning to beg for alms. A wooden mallet is used to hit the gong on the left or right side of the triangle, so that it starts spinning with a high tempo and thus creates a vibrating sound. Depending on the size and the corner where it is hit, the pitch changes. It is famous for its long sustaining tone.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service

Web editor: Wang Xiaoxuan

Reviewer1: Zhang Yanlan

Reviewer 2: Pang Bo

Reviewer3:Tang Caihong

English Reviewer: Shen Fei