(cheng). A Chinese half-tube ZITHER, dating from the third century B.C. The zheng was a popular solo instrument of the people, while the QIN was reserved for scholars and officials in meditation. The number of strings was variable, with 14 as an average. Modern instruments may have 24 or more. In any case, the strings are divided by movable bridges. The zheng is tuned pentatonically. In addition to harmonics, ornaments are performed by applying pressure to the nonplaying side of the bridges (like the Japanese KOTO and Korean kayago).