The erhu is a stringed instrument played in China, as Wikipedia explains:
The erhu (二胡; pinyin: èrhú, [êɻxǔ]) is a two-stringed bowed musical instrument, more specifically a spike fiddle, which may also be called a “southern fiddle”, and sometimes known in the Western world as the “Chinese violin” or a “Chinese two-stringed fiddle”. It is used as a solo instrument as well as in small ensembles and large orchestras. It is the most popular of the huqin family of traditional bowed string instruments used by various ethnic groups of China. A very versatile instrument, the erhu is used in both traditional and contemporary music arrangements, such as in pop, rock, jazz, etc.[1]
Yu Hong Mei is a leading erhu player. Here is her Facebook page and a profile at Pro Musicis:
YU Hongmei was selected for the Pro Musicis International Award in 2001, the very first erhuist to achieve this distinction. Currently she is a Professor at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing and master solo performer of erhu music. She has been performing on the erhu since the age of eight and has earned international recognition for her mature artistry. She performed her New York solo debut recital in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall under the auspices of Pro Musicis.
The music is quite beautiful. The piece below, strangely, reminds me of Aaron Copland.
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