In the 19th year of Duke Zhao of Lu (523 BCE), Confucius went to the State of Jin to learn the qin (a Chinese zither) from Shi Xiang, a renowned music official known among the feudal lords. It is said that Confucius studied the same piece for about ten days, repeatedly playing only that tune. Shi Xiang told him, "You have mastered this piece; you may learn a new one." Confucius replied, "I have learned the melody, but my playing technique is not yet polished." After some time, Shi Xiang said again, "Your technique is refined; you may learn a new piece." Confucius said, "I have yet to grasp the mood and spirit of this composition." Later, Shi Xiang said, "You have grasped the mood and spirit; you may learn a new piece." Confucius replied, "I have yet to perceive the author's character and essence." Shortly after, Confucius looked up thoughtfully and said, "I have now discerned the author's character. Who but King Wen of Zhou could have composed such a piece?" Shi Xiang stood up and bowed repeatedly, saying, "Exactly! When my teacher transmitted this piece, he said it was called 'King Wen's Melody.'" This shows the earnestness with which Confucius approached learning the qin.
Confucius was not only skilled at playing the zither and making music, but also greatly enjoyed singing. When singing with others, if someone sang well, he would ask them to sing again and then join in. Because of this, he often discussed music with others and developed strong comprehension and appreciation, to the point that after hearing the Shao music in the State of Qi, he became so entranced that he "did not know the taste of meat for three months."