Suzhou Pingtan

Pingtan, or story-telling and ballad singing, is originated in Suzhou. It is popular in the areas of Jinagsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai. Suzhou Pingtan, narrated and sung in Suzhou dialect, dates back to late Ming and early Qin dynasties.

Pingtan has many art forms and uses four main techniques, which are named "shuo"(narration), "Xue" (words or actions to amuse or excite laughter), "Tan" (accomaniment by traditional musical instruments) and "Chang" (singing) . Pingtan is a beautiful blossom in China's folk arts.