Frost moon shines high on the wall of Runzhou,
Such a night inspires the sound of oboe.
In the hills and rivers motionless all become quiet,
Fish are motionless and monkeys cry.

During the Sui and Tang period (581-907) the bili was adopted commonly in court orchestras. In the music-teaching institute of the Song dynasty (960-1279) a section for the bili was set up. Because of its frequent leading position in the orchestra, it was also termed as touguan (the principal instrument). The type used in the folk music after the Song dynasty was mostly made of bamboo, and later of red sandal, and bound with metal rings or tin hoops on booth ends.

The instrument is suitable for a stirring or tragic mood, able to create a strong local flavour.