Short Answer
Overview
The erhu (二胡) is a two‑stringed bowed musical instrument, often referred to as the Chinese violin. It consists of a long, thin neck attached to a small resonator box traditionally covered with python skin, and it is played with a horsehair bow. The instrument produces a rich, plaintive timbre that can imitate the human voice, making it a favored solo and ensemble instrument in Chinese music.
Modern erhu are typically constructed from hardwoods such as sandalwood or rosewood, and the strings are made from steel or silk. The player holds the instrument vertically on the left thigh, pressing the strings with the left hand while drawing the bow across them with the right hand. Its range spans roughly three octaves, and its expressive capabilities have led to its inclusion in a wide variety of musical contexts, from traditional opera to contemporary film scores.
History / Origin
The name “erhu” combines the Chinese characters for “two” (二) and “bowed instrument” (胡). The instrument belongs to the broader huqin family, which originated during the Tang (618–907 CE) and Song (960–1279 CE) dynasties as a court and military instrument influenced by Central Asian prototypes. By the Ming (1368–1644 CE) and Qing (1644–1912 CE) periods, the erhu had become a central feature of regional folk ensembles and Chinese opera troupes. Its modern form was standardized in the early 20th century, incorporating steel strings and a standardized tuning of D‑A.
How It’s Used
In traditional settings, the erhu is a core component of Chinese folk ensembles, Jiangnan silk-and-bamboo (江南丝竹) groups, and the instrumental accompaniment for Beijing opera, Kunqu, and Cantonese opera. Contemporary composers employ the erhu in orchestral works, film scores, and cross‑cultural collaborations, often pairing it with Western strings or electronic textures. Notated music for the erhu uses the standard Chinese Jianpu (number) system or Western staff notation, with specific bowing and finger‑position markings unique to the instrument.
Why It Matters
The erhu’s emotive sound has made it an iconic symbol of Chinese cultural identity, comparable to the role of the violin in Western classical music. Its repertoire includes centuries‑old pieces such as “Erquan Yingyue” (二泉映月) and modern compositions like Tan Dun’s “The Erhu Concerto”. The instrument’s versatility allows it to bridge traditional and popular genres, appearing in pop ballads, rock collaborations, and global world‑music projects, thereby reaching audiences worldwide.
Common Misconceptions
The erhu is a Chinese version of the violin.
While both are bowed string instruments, the erhu has only two strings, a resonator covered with python skin, and is held vertically, producing a timbre distinct from the violin.
The erhu is only used in classical Chinese music.
The erhu is employed across a spectrum of styles, including folk, opera, contemporary orchestral works, film scores, and popular music collaborations.
FAQ
How is the erhu tuned?
The erhu is most commonly tuned a perfect fifth apart, with the inner string (nearest the player) tuned to D4 and the outer string to A4, though regional variations may use other tunings.
What materials are used for the erhu bow?
The bow is traditionally made from bamboo with horsehair stretched between the ends; modern bows may use synthetic materials, but horsehair remains standard for authentic tone production.
Can the erhu play chromatic passages?
Yes, skilled erhu players can produce chromatic notes by adjusting finger pressure and position along the string, allowing the instrument to play in any key despite its limited number of strings.
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