{Video; UN: gambler}

[thescorpionking]

I have searched as best as I am able... {Which isn't a lot considering his current state.} I wish to order a pipa since mine was left behind. It will be some time before I am able to play again, but I don't expect it to be an easy project for a luthier.

{The title sounds funny on his tongue and his nose wrinkles faintly.}

For those who do not know, a pipa is a stringed instrument.

{And they are amazing.}

Comments

voice

[windsongs]

If we're just talking stringed instruments, then cello and guitar. But I like learning whatever's around me; I've always been a natural with that. I've been playing cello since I was young, but the guitar is what I reach for more nowadays. But singing is what I do best.

[ Thank you, genetics. It's one of the few things she got from her father that she appreciates and enjoys. ]

You must be really good if you've been playing for that long. You might be able to transfer some of that into a new instrument, if you aren't able to get someone to make a pipa for you.

voice

[thescorpionking]

Would you mind letting me hear you play? I have never encountered a guitar or cello. Some of the instruments I know might be similar to them, but I can't say.

{Ancient Chinese strings are unique, but he will be able to see the evolution.}

I might! Do either of your instruments need to be plucked?

[windsongs]

Of course, I'd be happy to play for you! I can even teach you a bit if you want!

[ She's always happy to meet fellow musicians, especially if they can play together at some point. ]

You can pluck a cello, and some songs call for it, but you use a bow for the most part. It looks like a giant stick with hairs attached that you use on the strings to make sound. But a guitar sounds like it's more your speed, since you can either strum the strings or pluck individual ones for a more classical sound. I haven't gotten a chance to get either since I'm pretty new, but when I do I'll show you what they sound like.

[thescorpionking]

I need to get myself back into proper shape for it. My arm needs strengthening.

{The explanation of a bow makes him grin. Who came up with that? What does it sound like when it comes into contact with strings?}

I know the location of a music shop that likely sells both if you are interested? Instruments can be rented if that is easier.

[windsongs]

I can help you with that too if you want! I can show you some bowing exercises you can do without an instrument, since you wanna make sure you're using the proper technique.

[ A shop?! Yes? He can probably hear the grin in her voice. ]

I'm very interested! All of my stuff is back home, so I need to start building up my collection again! [ A beat. ] Well, okay, some of it is. I unfortunately had to downsize recently due to a last-minute move.

[thescorpionking]

That would be helpful. I assume holding the bow isn't a simple task. You wouldn't want to apply too much or too little pressure on the strings.

{He likes strings. They are so versatile and lovely when plucked or stroked.}

Having an instrument or two would make this world feel more like home. The shop owner was very kind.

[windsongs]

Holding it is a lot easier than you think, but understanding what speed and how much pressure you need to use takes some time. But you'll want a base on how to move your arm and your wrist.

[ The last thing he wants is arm fatigue from bad technique. ]

And I totally agree. If I have a guitar, I can start playing gigs again! I doubt I can make any money doing it, but I really miss performing. And writing too. It's a little hard to do when you don't have an instrument to help with the process.

[thescorpionking]

I'm sure you will be a capable instructor and I'm not a poor student.

{When Xie wants to learn something, he gives the subject his full attention.}

Don't presume you can't make money. It's all about where and when you share your talent with the world.

Let's get you an instrument so you can do both.

[windsongs]

[ There's a very audible pause on her end. She's never really had time to give lessons between everything she had going on, but here maybe... ]

You know what? Yeah, you're totally right! Maybe I can make a little money if I take on a couple students now that I've got the time to do it. [ She claps her hands once. It's decided! ]

Fujiwara Hibiki, it's nice to meet you! Once I pick something up, I'd be happy to take you on as a student!

[thescorpionking]

{Why not? Music should be shared and enjoyed. Xie has never been able to give his full attention to it either.}

I think you should. You seem to enjoy music. {Life is too short doing anything less than one's calling.}

I am Xie. I appreciate you considering me worthwhile.

[windsongs]

Of course! Anybody who wants to try is worthwhile in my book!

[ Just enjoying it is a huge understatement, but he's not wrong. ]

Music's probably the thing I've been doing the longest, outside of aikido.

[thescorpionking]

That's a nice way to look at it.

{She will make a great teacher. Students need someone who inspires them; they should never feel belittled.}

Aikido?

[windsongs]

Oh right, I forgot not everyone would know what that is here. It's a type of martial arts--basically a way of defending yourself. But it focuses less on getting into fights and more about avoiding them. I've been doing it since I was little.