Erhu Classes

Message from Amely Zhou

Erhu is a two-stringed traditional Chinese fiddle. Played with the instrument resting on the left lap, some prefer to think of it as the “Chinese Violin” for it’s a bowed instrument. The Erhu appeared in China in the Tang Dynasty, many experts believe the instrument originated from a northern tribe of China. Since then, erhu has been a very popular folk instrument and was played in tea houses, parks, and gatherings. Nowadays, erhu has developed its own stream of repertoires and is also performed in ensembles and orchestras. Erhu has a special attraction to people because of its melancholy sound similar to human voices. Some of the famous repertoires of erhu are Moon Reflected on Erquan Lake, Birds in Desolated Mountains, and Crying River. Apart from traditional music, erhu is also played in contemporary arrangements such as modern jazz, pop and rock music. It is also enlivening, energetic, inspiring and stimulating and collaborates well with many other instruments.

Do you have a passion on Chinese music? Do you have a Dream?

If you like to explore and appreciate more on Chinese music and culture, learning to play the Erhu is a means to reach your dream.

The Canada Chinese Orchestra is partnering with the Shaolin Temple Quanfa Institute/Toronto East (STQI) to organize Erhu Classes at the STQI venue. Please visit HERE for more information.