Dailybeam

The Chau gong (also called the bullseye gong) by far, is the most recognizable to Westerners. Large chau gongs that are called tam-tams have even become part of the symphony orchestra. Though the chau gong is often referred as a Chinese gong, the truth is that it’s only one of the many types of suspended gongs that are associated with China. A tiger gong is a slightly descending or ascending gong, larger than an opera gong with a less pronounced pitch shift. Wind gongs are flat bronze discs, with little fundamental pitch, heavy tuned overtones, and long sustained sound. Traditionally, a wind gong is played with a large soft mallet, which gives them a roaring crash. They are commonly used by drum kit drummers in rock music. Nipple gongs have a raised boss or nipple in the center and they have a clear resonant tone with less shimmer than other gongs.