Among the many captivating sounds of traditional Chinese music, few are as evocative and soul-stirring as the melancholic yet expressive tones of the Erhu. Often referred to as the “Chinese violin” or “Chinese two-stringed fiddle,” the Erhu is one of the most iconic and enduring instruments in China’s vast musical heritage. From ancient imperial courts to contemporary concert stages, the Erhu has enchanted audiences with its unique timbre, dynamic range, and emotional depth.
But what exactly is the Erhu? How does it produce such compelling sounds with just two strings? What is its historical background, and how has it evolved over centuries? By the end, you’ll have a rich appreciation for why this humble-looking instrument holds such a profound place in the world of music.
What Is an Erhu?
The Erhu (Chinese: 二胡, pronounced èrhú) is a traditional Chinese bowed string instrument, classified as a two-stringed spike fiddle. It is part of the huqin family of instruments, which includes several bowed lutes of varying shapes and tonal ranges. Despite its minimalistic structure—consisting of only two strings, a small resonating body, and a long vertical neck—the Erhu is renowned for its ability to produce an extraordinarily wide range of tones, from sweet and tender whispers to anguished cries.
The instrument is primarily played with a bow that is permanently threaded between its two strings. It lacks a fingerboard, unlike Western violins, and instead relies on the player pressing the strings directly with the fingers to change pitch. The Erhu is typically held vertically on the lap while seated, with the soundbox resting on the left thigh.
Often used in solo performances, Chinese opera, and orchestral settings, the Erhu is celebrated for its emotional depth and vocal-like quality. Its expressive voice often mimics the human voice more closely than other string instruments, making it a favorite for conveying narrative and sentiment in Chinese music.
History and Origins of the Erhu
The Erhu’s roots can be traced back over a thousand years to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), though it likely evolved from even older Central Asian instruments. Its predecessor is believed to be the xiqin (奚琴), a bowed instrument used by the Xi people of northern China. Over the centuries, the design and construction of the Erhu were refined, and its popularity spread throughout the country.
By the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), the Erhu began to take on a form more recognizable to modern audiences. It was during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) Dynasties, however, that the instrument saw widespread adoption and further evolution in both structure and technique. The Erhu became a staple in regional opera troupes and folk ensembles, used to accompany vocal performances and to dramatize emotion.
In the 20th century, the Erhu experienced a renaissance, thanks in part to efforts by influential musicians and composers to modernize Chinese music. It found a place in Chinese orchestras, became the subject of formal study in conservatories, and saw the creation of modern concertos and solo works. The legendary player Liu Tianhua (1895–1932) is credited with transforming the Erhu into a serious concert instrument by composing solo pieces and establishing systematic training methods.
Today, the Erhu enjoys a global following, appearing in cross-genre collaborations, world music ensembles, film scores, and international concerts.
Structure and Design of the Erhu
At first glance, the Erhu’s construction appears deceptively simple. Yet every component contributes significantly to its unique sound and playability. The Erhu consists of the following main parts:
1. Qintong (琴筒) – Soundbox
The soundbox is a small, hollow cylinder—typically hexagonal or octagonal in shape—and is made from aged hardwood such as red sandalwood, rosewood, or ebony. The front face of the box is traditionally covered with python skin, which plays a crucial role in sound resonance. The skin is tightly stretched over the soundbox, creating the signature warm and vocal tone of the Erhu.
2. Qinxian (琴弦) – Strings
The Erhu has two strings: the inner string (nearest the player) and the outer string. They are traditionally made from silk, though modern Erhus often use metal-wound nylon or steel strings for greater durability and brighter sound.
3. Qigan (琴杆) – Neck or Shaft
The neck is a long vertical rod connected to the soundbox and serves as the support structure for the strings and pegs. There is no fingerboard, and players press the strings directly against the neck.
4. Qianjin (千斤) – Nut
A loop of string or cord, often made from silk or synthetic material, is tied around the neck to act as a nut. This cord defines the vibrating length of the strings and also slightly affects tone.
5. Tuning Pegs (弦軸)
Two large wooden pegs are used to tune the strings. These pegs are friction-fit into the head of the neck and must be handled with care to maintain tuning stability.
6. Bow (弓)
The bow is unique in that it is permanently inserted between the two strings and cannot be removed without detaching a string. It is made of a bamboo stick strung with horsehair, similar to a violin bow. Rosin is applied to the hair to increase friction.
7. Bridge (琴馬)
A small piece of hardwood placed on the python skin, transferring the string vibrations to the soundbox.
8. Damper (墊布)
A piece of felt or sponge is often placed between the strings and the python skin to dampen overtones and control sustain.
How Does an Erhu Sound?
The Erhu is often described as the most “human” sounding instrument in Chinese music. Its timbre is emotional, expressive, and haunting, often likened to a soprano voice or the weeping of a human soul. Its pitch range spans about three octaves, and while it may lack the full polyphonic capabilities of Western string instruments, its tone color, vibrato, and dynamic nuance give it unmatched expressive potential.
The python skin contributes significantly to its warm, rich, and slightly nasal tone. The bowing technique and finger pressure add subtle inflections to each note, allowing for glissandi, slides, tremolos, and harmonics that enhance its vocal-like quality.
Famous Erhu compositions like “Moon Reflected in Second Spring” (Er Quan Ying Yue) or “The Galloping War Horses” (Zhan Ma) showcase the instrument’s ability to evoke melancholy, urgency, and narrative emotion.
How to Play the Erhu
Despite having only two strings and no fingerboard, the Erhu is a complex instrument to master. It demands refined technique, delicate control, and emotional sensitivity.
Posture and Holding
The Erhu is held vertically, resting on the left thigh.
The left hand handles pitch and vibrato, pressing the string lightly without fully stopping it against the neck.
The right hand controls the bow, which is inserted between the strings.
Left Hand Techniques
Pressing and sliding along the strings determines pitch.
Vibrato (rouyin) adds emotional depth.
Slides (glissando) are frequent and natural due to the fretless neck.
Right Hand Techniques
Bowing inside (inner string) and outside (outer string) requires wrist control.
Techniques include legato, staccato, spiccato, and sawing bow strokes.
Rosin is applied frequently to maintain bow grip.
Tuning
The standard tuning is D4 (inner) and A4 (outer), a fifth apart.
Fine tuning is done via string tension and peg adjustments.
Learning the Erhu involves repetition, ear training, and interpretative practice, as much of its expression lies beyond the written notes.
Erhu in Music Genres
While the Erhu is a pillar of traditional Chinese music, it also enjoys a place in many other genres, both historical and modern.
1. Traditional Chinese Music
Folk music: Used in various regional folk styles.
Opera accompaniment: In Beijing opera and other regional operas.
Narrative singing: Accompanies storytelling and singing genres like quyi.
2. Chinese Orchestral Music
Modern Chinese orchestras feature the Erhu as both a sectional and solo instrument, akin to the role of violins in Western orchestras.
3. Contemporary and Cross-Genre Music
The Erhu appears in pop, rock, jazz, and electronic fusions.
Used in film scores (e.g., Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) and video game soundtracks.
Global artists blend Erhu with Western instruments for unique sonic textures.
4. World Music and Fusion
Erhu artists have collaborated with Indian sitar players, Western classical string quartets, African percussionists, and jazz musicians to create intercultural works.
Notable Erhu Players
Liu Tianhua (1895–1932)
Often regarded as the father of modern Erhu.
Composed foundational solo works like Moon Reflected in Second Spring.
Advocated for formal training and modernization of the Erhu.
Min Huifen (1945–2014)
Revered for her virtuosic technique and deep expression.
Notable pieces: The Great Wall Capriccio, Yangguan Sandie.
Jiang Jianhua
International soloist known for blending Erhu with Western orchestras.
Collaborated with Yo-Yo Ma on Silk Road Project.
George Gao
Canadian-Chinese performer and innovator.
Introduced the Erhu to Western pop and symphonic settings.
Known for his electric Erhu performances.
Chen Jun and Chen Yin
Members of an Erhu family dynasty.
Have expanded the instrument’s role in contemporary and crossover music.
Choosing an Erhu: What to Consider
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, choosing the right Erhu is crucial. Here are factors to consider:
1. Skill Level
Beginner Models: Affordable, durable, easy to play. Often made with rosewood or sandalwood.
Intermediate Models: Better sound quality, finer materials, more precise craftsmanship.
Professional Models: Made from aged ebony or red sandalwood, with premium python skin. These instruments offer superior tone and projection.
2. Materials
Wood Type: Affects resonance. Ebony offers dark, rich tones; rosewood gives a brighter sound.
Python Skin: Genuine python is ideal but subject to international trade laws. Alternatives exist.
Strings: Metal-core strings are more durable and offer brighter tone.
3. Bow Type
Some bows use Mongolian horsehair for better friction.
Choose a balanced bow with good elasticity.
4. Accessories
Hard cases, rosin, string dampers, and extra strings are essential.
Consider investing in a clip-on tuner and shoulder rest for practice sessions.
5. Brands and Recommendations
Dunhuang and Shanghai No. 1 are well-known for quality.
Hu Han-ji, Zhu Ming, and Wang Genxing make handmade instruments for professionals.
Always try to test the instrument in person, or buy from reputable dealers that specialize in traditional Chinese instruments.
Conclusion
The Erhu stands as a remarkable testament to the expressive power of simplicity. With just two strings and a compact frame, it can convey an incredible range of human emotions—from sorrow to joy, intimacy to grandeur. Its unique structure, ancient lineage, and cultural significance have made it a staple of Chinese musical tradition, while its evolving presence in contemporary genres proves its enduring versatility.
Whether you’re drawn by its haunting sound, its deep cultural roots, or the challenge of mastering its subtleties, the Erhu offers a fulfilling journey for any music lover. With a growing number of players and listeners around the world, this ancient instrument continues to captivate hearts and bridge cultures—one haunting note at a time.
