Jialing is a Tibetan double-reed air-sounding instrument with unique shape, tall shape and exquisite decoration. It is used for ensemble or accompaniment and is deeply loved by the people. Popular in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, Aba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu Province and Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province.
According to legend, Jialing evolved from the suona introduced to Tibetan areas from the mainland, and its name is the best proof. Another way of saying is: it was introduced into Lhasa from the western Ladakh area around the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama (1642-1682 AD).
The shape of the Jialing is basically the same as that of the suona in the mainland, but it is longer than the general suona, the diameter is thicker, the sound hole is slightly larger, and the whistle is also slightly thicker and harder. The body is made of two layers of wood pipes, especially its exterior decoration, which is far more delicate and beautiful than the suona in the mainland.