zhonghu

musical instrument

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Last updated

July 17, 2026

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The zhonghu is a larger, lower-pitched relative of the erhu, a popular two-stringed Chinese vertical fiddle. Like the erhu, the zhonghu has strings tuned a fifth apart stretched over a wooden, drum-like resonator covered by a snakeskin membrane. It does not have a fingerboard, allowing for a wide range of expressive effects such as vibrato and glissandos. The zhonghu is played both as a solo instrument and as a valuable member of the orchestra, often found in traditional Chinese chamber music ensembles known as sizhu.12

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erhu
…of the erhu is called zhonghu. All three sizes are valuable members of the orchestra. See also jinghu, huqin.
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…of the erhu is called zhonghu. All three sizes are valuable members of the orchestra. See also jinghu, huqin.
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sizhu
Additional instruments, such as zhonghu (a larger relative of the erhu), may be used. Small percussion instruments, such as a small drum, clappers, or handbells, may be played by the person who beats time. The repertoire and style of the ensembles follow tradition, although new music is also composed.
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Additional instruments, such as zhonghu (a larger relative of the erhu), may be used. Small percussion instruments, such as a small drum, clappers, or handbells, may be played by the person who beats time. The repertoire and style of the ensembles follow tradition, although new music is also composed.
Read More