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Distinguish between the tonal qualities and playing techniques of the following instruments: Guqin, Ney, and Viola da Gamba.
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The Guqin, Ney, and Viola da Gamba are three distinct musical instruments, each with its own unique tonal qualities and playing techniques. 

The Guqin is a Chinese stringed instrument belonging to the zither family. It has seven strings, and its body is made of wood. The playing techniques for the Guqin involve plucking the strings with the fingertips, as well as using various left-hand techniques to produce subtle variations in pitch, timbre, and dynamics. The tonal quality of the Guqin is often described as serene and introspective, with a gentle, ethereal sound. This instrument is traditionally associated with the Chinese literati and is often used to evoke feelings of contemplation and tranquility.

The Ney is a Middle Eastern end-blown flute made from a hollow reed or cane. It typically has six or seven finger holes and a thumb hole, and its playing technique involves blowing air into the instrument's upper end, which is obliquely cut to create a sharp edge. The player's lips and teeth control the airflow and produce the sound. The tonal quality of the Ney is characterized by its breathy, haunting, and emotive sound. It is capable of producing a wide range of pitches and dynamics, making it a versatile instrument for expressing various emotions and moods. The Ney is a prominent instrument in Middle Eastern and Islamic music and is often used in both classical and folk genres.

The Viola da Gamba is a European stringed instrument that emerged during the Renaissance period. It is similar in appearance to the modern cello but has six or seven strings and frets along the fingerboard. The instrument is played with a bow, and its playing technique involves drawing the bow across the strings while the left hand presses down on the strings to change the pitch. The Viola da Gamba has a rich, warm, and expressive tonal quality, with a timbre that is often described as being somewhere between a cello and a human voice. This instrument was widely used in both solo and ensemble settings during the Baroque era and has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in the realm of early music performance.

In summary, the Guqin, Ney, and Viola da Gamba each have their own unique tonal qualities and playing techniques, which contribute to the diverse and expressive palette of sounds found in music from around the world.