Known as the “Chinese violin”, the erhu is one of China’s most expressive and recognisable traditional instruments. With only two strings and a bow strung with horsehair, the erhu is capable of producing deeply emotional melodies that can resemble the human voice, birdsong or even galloping horses.

Believed to have originated from Central Asia more than a thousand years ago, the instrument gradually became an essential part of Chinese folk music, opera and imperial court performances. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, variations of the huqin family had spread across China, supporting regional opera traditions and ensemble music.

The modern erhu is played vertically, with its slender wooden neck pointing upward while the small soundbox rests on the musician’s thigh. Despite its simple appearance, the instrument has an impressive musical range spanning three octaves.

Today, the erhu continues to thrive in orchestras, conservatories and concert halls around the world, preserving a timeless connection to China’s rich musical heritage.