The erhu is a traditional Chinese musical instrument belonging to the category of bowed string instruments. Specifically, it is part of the huqin family, which encompasses various types of Chinese fiddles. The erhu is distinguished by its two strings and its unique sound, produced by drawing a bow across the strings.
The body of the erhu is typically made from wood, and it features a resonating chamber that can be crafted from a variety of materials, including snakeskin. The instrument is known for its expressive range, allowing for a wide variety of emotional expressions, and is commonly used in Chinese folk music, classical music, and contemporary compositions.
Other members of the huqin family include the gaohu (a higher-pitched version of the erhu), the zhonghu (a lower-pitched version), and the jinghu, which is often used in Beijing opera. Each of these instruments has its unique character and role within different musical contexts.