The erhu is a two-stringed bowed instrument — sometimes referred to as the "Chinese fiddle" — with origins stretching back to over one thousand years ago (you can hear examples of erhu in the "Traditional Instruments of China" playlist in our Audio Backpack). The instrument primarily consists of a mahogany sound box (covered with a snake skin head) and two steel strings which are played with a horsehair bamboo bow.
Recently, Chinese ehru master George Gao performed the vocal part of Mozart's famous 'Queen of the Night' aria, with accompaniment from a string quartet. Enjoy the rendition in the video below.
(For more of George Gao, you can see a video of him performing the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in D Major on ehru here)
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
