Use two to eight fingers to pluck two to eight strings in a quick sequence, with all fingers moving in a closing motion. Sequences can run from low to high or from high to low. If using own nails, the pad and nail both touch the strings. This is the general term for arpeggios.
A pá yīn or arpeggio that plays from high notes to low notes starting with the thumb.
A pá yīn or arpeggio that plays from low notes to high notes but starts with the ring finger.
Use the index finger or the thumb of the right hand to pluck a single string in rapid succession by “shaking” the finger back and forth across the string. The physical motion is better described as a rolling of the wrist and forearm. This technique is very pronounced in the Henan school of music. It is used to extend the duration of a note at a controlled volume. It is also called Lúnzhǐ 轮指 in Shandong. Ferguson offers the additional name “Lùn 論” but is the only source who does so.
Alternative notation:
Meant to invoke the sound of wind. While performing yaozhi with the right hand, pinch the string between the left hand thumb and index finger at the movable bridge. Slide the pinched left hand towards the right hand. This creates a muffled percussive sound that rises in pitch as the left hand moves closer to the right. The song “Fighting the Typhoon” has one of the most famous examples.
Alternate Notation:
Use the index finger to play Yáo zhǐ. The thumb pinches the index finger at the first joint. The wrist or heel of the hand rests on the wood to the right of the fixed bridge. The wrist rocks at the heel of the hand through a slight rotary action of the lower arm.
Use the index finger to play Yáo zhǐ. The middle finger can support the hand by resting on another string. Cheng offers the synonym “da zhi yao”, probably 大指摇, “Thumb shake”.
Use the right hand to play yaozhi, but hold the hand close to the movable bridge. Slide along the string toward the fixed bridge while continuing to play.