Music & Performance

The Chinese erhu, often called the “Chinese violin,” is a two-stringed instrument with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Its haunting, soulful sound captures the essence of Chinese culture, from pastoral melodies to dramatic battle cries. Whether you’re a music lover or curious about traditional instruments, this guide dives into the erhu’s origins, structure, techniques, and cultural impact. Quick Facts About the Chinese Erhu Feature Details Origin Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), evolved from nomadic “xiqin” Structure Two strings, python skin soundboard, wooden body Sound Expressive, mimicking human voice or natural sounds Famous Pieces “Moonlit Spring River,” “Galloping Horses” Cultural Role Symbol of resilience, harmony, and Chinese identity Origins and Legends of the Chinese Erhu The erhu’s story begins in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) with the “xiqin,” a simple instrument made by nomadic tribes using horsehair and bamboo. According to legend, it was a companion for homesick shepherds on the Mongolian steppes. As it traveled along the Silk Road to central China, it earned the name “erhu”—“er” for its two strings and “hu” for its western origins. Ancient…

The Chinese pipa, a four-stringed lute with over 2,000 years of history, is a cornerstone of Chinese musical heritage. Known for its pear-shaped body and vibrant sound, the pipa captivates listeners with its ability to evoke both tender melodies and powerful battle scenes. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a beginner curious about traditional instruments, this guide offers a comprehensive look at the pipa’s history, structure, techniques, and cultural significance. Key Facts About the Chinese Pipa Aspect Details Origin Qin Dynasty (2nd century BCE), evolved from Silk Road influences Structure Pear-shaped body, four strings, 24 frets Playing Style Plucked with fingers, versatile for lyrical and dramatic music Famous Pieces “Ten Ambush,” “Moonlit River in Spring” Cultural Role Symbol of resilience, elegance, and Chinese heritage History and Origins of the Chinese Pipa The pipa traces its roots to the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), making it one of China’s oldest stringed instruments. According to historians, it evolved from a blend of local straight-necked lutes and the curved-neck “quxiang” pipa introduced via the Silk Road from Central Asia. The name “pipa” derives from…

The Guzheng, or Chinese zither, is a beautiful stringed instrument with over 2,500 years of history. Its twinkling notes tell stories of ancient China, from royal courts to modern stages. Known as the “Oriental piano,” the guzheng captivates with its rich sound and cultural depth. This guide explores its origins, styles, and global impact, making it easy for anyone to fall in love with this musical gem. Quick Facts About the Guzheng Aspect Details History Over 2,500 years, from the Warring States period Strings Typically 21, evolved from 5 strings Sound Clear, elegant, and expressive Cultural Role Symbol of Chinese heritage, played worldwide Origins of the Guzheng The Guzheng traces its roots to the “se,” a 50-stringed instrument from China’s Warring States period (475–221 BCE). The se was complex, so musicians simplified it into the guzheng, a smaller instrument with a crisp, lively sound. According to the ancient text Records of the Grand Historian, a Qin Dynasty general named Meng Tian named it “zheng” for its “zheng-zheng” chime. Starting with five strings, it grew to 12, then 13, and settled…