How to Learn to Play Erhu

The erhu, a captivating two-stringed instrument with a rich history and enchanting sound, is a gateway to a world of traditional Chinese music. Its hauntingly beautiful melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, drawing aspiring musicians to explore its depths. If you're intrigued by the erhu and want to embark on this unique musical journey, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview, covering everything from basic concepts to essential techniques.

The Allure of the Erhu: A Brief Overview

The erhu, also known as the "two-stringed fiddle" or "Chinese violin," is a member of the huqin family, a group of traditional Chinese bowed instruments. Its origins can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), and over the centuries, it has evolved into a prominent instrument in Chinese music, accompanying operas, storytelling, and a wide variety of genres.

The erhu's unique sound is characterized by its resonant, slightly nasal quality. The two strings, typically made of silk or steel, vibrate across a resonating body made of wood. The bow, held horizontally, is drawn across the strings to produce a wide range of notes, from delicate whispers to powerful crescendos. The erhu's versatility allows it to express a spectrum of emotions, from melancholic yearning to joyful exuberance.

Getting Started with the Erhu: Essential Steps

1. Choosing Your First Erhu

Selecting your first erhu is a crucial step in your learning journey. Several factors influence the choice, including size, material, and budget. Consider the following tips:

• Size: Erhus come in different sizes to accommodate players of varying heights. Beginners typically start with a standard size, but if you're very tall or short, you may need a larger or smaller instrument.
• Material: Traditional erhus are made from various woods like rosewood, maple, and paulownia. The choice of wood affects the sound and aesthetics of the instrument. Opt for an erhu with high-quality wood for optimal sound projection and resonance.
• Budget: Erhus vary widely in price, ranging from affordable student models to handcrafted instruments. It's essential to find an instrument that fits your budget while providing adequate quality. It's best to start with a beginner-friendly erhu and upgrade as you progress.

2. Acquiring Essential Accessories

To play the erhu, you'll need a few essential accessories in addition to the instrument itself:

• Bow: Choose a bow with a comfortable grip and appropriate tension for your erhu. The bow hair should be made of high-quality horsehair for optimal sound production.
• Rosin: Rosin is a sticky substance applied to the bow hair to enhance friction and create a clear, consistent sound. Use rosin sparingly to avoid excessive stickiness.
• Tuning Pegs: These pegs are used to adjust the tension of the strings, ensuring the erhu is tuned correctly. Learning to tune your erhu is a fundamental skill.

3. Understanding the Erhu's Anatomy

Before you begin playing, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the erhu's anatomy:

• Snakeskin: The erhu's resonator is covered with a thin layer of snakeskin, which enhances its resonance and sound quality.
• Sound Post: This small wooden pillar located inside the resonator amplifies the vibrations of the strings, contributing to the erhu's unique sound.
• Tuning Pegs: Two pegs are used to adjust the tension of the strings, fine-tuning the erhu to the desired pitch.
• Bridge: The bridge is a small wooden piece that sits on the snakeskin, supporting the strings and transmitting vibrations to the resonator.
• Strings: The two strings are the heart of the erhu. They are typically made of silk or steel and vibrate to produce sound.
• Sound Hole: The sound hole is a circular opening on the resonator that allows sound to escape and project into the environment.
• Neck: The neck is the long, narrow part of the erhu where the strings are held. It is fitted with a tuning peg at the top and a fingerboard below.
• Fingerboard: The fingerboard is the smooth, flat surface on the neck where the player presses their fingers to change notes.
• Headstock: This is the top part of the erhu, where the tuning pegs are located. It is usually adorned with intricate carvings or decorations.

Mastering the Basics of Erhu Playing

1. Holding the Erhu

Proper erhu holding technique is fundamental for comfort and effective playing. Follow these steps:

• Resting Position: Position the erhu on your lap, leaning against your abdomen. The headstock should point towards the ceiling, and the neck should be at a comfortable angle. The resonator should face upwards, allowing the sound to project properly.
• Left Hand Placement: Place your left hand on the neck of the erhu, with your thumb extending along the back of the neck. The remaining fingers should curve naturally, ready to press on the fingerboard.
• Right Hand Placement: Hold the bow horizontally, with your thumb and index finger near the bow hair and your remaining fingers supporting the bow stick. The bow should be slightly tilted towards the erhu, creating the necessary angle for bowing.

2. Tuning the Erhu

Tuning your erhu is essential for producing accurate notes and harmonious music. It involves adjusting the tension of the strings using the tuning pegs:

1. Identify the Strings: The erhu has two strings: the A-string (lower pitch) and the D-string (higher pitch). The A-string is typically located on the player's left side, while the D-string is on the right.
2. Tuning the A-String: Tune the A-string to the note A above middle C (A4) using a tuning device or reference instrument. Turn the tuning peg clockwise to tighten the string and counterclockwise to loosen it. Adjust the peg until the A-string matches the desired pitch.
3. Tuning the D-String: Tune the D-string to the note D above the A-string (D5). Use the same method as for the A-string, adjusting the peg to match the desired pitch.

3. Bowing Techniques

Bowing is the technique used to create sound on the erhu. It involves drawing the bow across the strings with a steady, controlled motion. The following techniques are crucial for producing various sounds and effects:

• Up-Bow: Draw the bow from the frog (bottom end) towards the tip (top end) of the bow stick. This produces a smooth, consistent sound.
• Down-Bow: Draw the bow from the tip towards the frog. This also creates a smooth sound, but it can be used for a slightly different tonal quality.
• Pressure Control: The amount of pressure you apply to the bow hair affects the loudness and intensity of the sound. Lighter pressure creates a softer sound, while heavier pressure produces a louder, more powerful sound.
• Speed Control: The speed at which you move the bow across the strings also affects the sound. Slower bowing produces a smoother, more legato sound, while faster bowing creates a more detached, staccato sound.
• Vibrato: Vibrato is a technique used to add warmth and expression to the sound. It involves subtly shaking the bow hand, causing the pitch of the note to fluctuate slightly.

4. Finger Placement and Note Production

To play different notes on the erhu, you need to press your fingers on the fingerboard, effectively shortening the vibrating length of the strings. The positions of your fingers on the fingerboard determine the pitch of the notes you play.

The erhu has a unique fingerboard that allows for a wide range of notes to be played. The fingering system uses the first three fingers of the left hand, with each finger typically corresponding to a specific position on the fingerboard. Practice transitioning smoothly between these positions to play melodies and scales.

5. Learning Basic Scales and Melodies

Once you've mastered the basics of holding, tuning, bowing, and finger placement, you can start learning basic scales and melodies. Begin with simple scales like the C major scale or the G major scale, gradually increasing in complexity. This will help you develop your understanding of the erhu's musical range and build your finger strength and dexterity.

Explore traditional Chinese music, incorporating melodies from famous pieces like "Erquan Yingyue" (Moon Reflected in Two Springs) or "Liang Zhu" (The Butterfly Lovers). These pieces offer beautiful melodies and engaging rhythms that showcase the erhu's expressive capabilities.

Resources for Learning Erhu

There are numerous resources available for aspiring erhu players:

• Online Tutorials: Websites like YouTube and Coursera offer free and paid tutorials on erhu playing. These tutorials cover various topics, from beginner lessons to advanced techniques.
• Erhu Teachers: Find a qualified erhu teacher in your area or online. Private lessons provide personalized instruction and guidance, helping you develop your skills effectively.
• Erhu Books and Sheet Music: There are various erhu books and sheet music available, ranging from beginner-friendly collections to advanced repertoire. These resources provide valuable theoretical knowledge and musical scores.

Tips for Success

• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for improvement. Set aside dedicated time each day for practicing erhu. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as you progress.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Learning to play the erhu takes time and dedication. Don't get discouraged if you encounter challenges. Practice regularly, and you'll see steady progress over time.
• Find a Supportive Community: Connect with other erhu players or join an erhu community online. Sharing experiences and learning from others can enhance your musical journey.
• Enjoy the Process: Remember to enjoy the journey of learning the erhu. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and savor the beauty of this unique instrument.

Conclusion

Learning to play the erhu is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to explore the richness of Chinese music and express yourself through this enchanting instrument. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can begin your musical journey and unlock the world of the erhu's captivating melodies.

Remember, patience, perseverance, and a love for music are the key ingredients for success. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your achievements, and enjoy the journey of mastering this unique and expressive instrument.