Topmusicanswers
How is erhu music written?
Theoretically, the erhu can be played in any key because there is no fret. But traditionally erhu music is not written in keys of more than 3 sharps or flats. The open strings, and the 5th and octaves above the open strings, are important reference points for intonation.
What is the range of the erhu?
The maximum range of the instrument is three and a half octaves, from D4 up to A7, before a stopping finger reaches the part of the string in contact with the bow hair. The usual playing range is about two and a half octaves. Various dense and heavy hardwoods are used in making the Erhu.
Is erhu older than violin?
People call the erhu the Chinese violin. However, it should be the other way around because the erhu is about a thousand years older than the violin.
