Zhonghu Musical Instrument Facts

What is a Zhonghu Instrument?

The Zhonghu is a traditional Chinese string instrument, part of the huqin family, and similar in appearance to the erhu but larger in size.

It produces a deeper, mellower sound compared to the erhu, making it well-suited for playing lower-pitched melodies and harmonies.

The zhonghu is an essential instrument in Chinese orchestras and is often used to add rich, warm tones to traditional Chinese music.

Detailed Zhonghu Instrument Facts

Instrument Name	Zhonghu
Instrument Family	String
Alternative Names	The zhonghu is sometimes called the “alto erhu” because of its deeper tone and similar construction to the erhu. In some contexts, it is simply referred to as a “Chinese viola” due to its role in traditional Chinese music ensembles.
Geographical Presence	The zhonghu is predominantly played in China and is a staple in Chinese orchestras. It is also used in Chinese music ensembles abroad, particularly in regions with significant Chinese communities, such as Southeast Asia and the Chinese diaspora.
Instrument Classification	The zhonghu falls under the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system as 321.321-71, identifying it as a bowed lute chordophone. This category includes string instruments where sound is produced by bowing, and the strings are parallel to a neck, characteristic of the huqin family.
Unique Features	The zhonghu has a larger, cylindrical wooden body covered with snake skin on the front, which gives it its distinct warm and deep sound. It has two strings, usually tuned a perfect fifth apart, and is played with a bow made from horsehair. The instrument’s size and longer strings allow it to produce a lower range of notes than the erhu. The strings are made of metal or a combination of metal and silk, contributing to its mellow tone. Unlike the erhu, the zhonghu has a thicker neck and a slightly longer fingerboard, which provides more flexibility in playing lower-pitched melodies.
Sound Characteristics	The zhonghu produces a rich, mellow, and resonant sound, with a darker timbre than the erhu. Its tone is deep and expressive, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions. The instrument excels in producing lyrical, flowing melodies and is often used to evoke a sense of calmness and introspection in traditional Chinese music. Its sound blends harmoniously in ensemble settings, adding depth and warmth to the overall texture of Chinese orchestral performances.
Typical Music Genres	The zhonghu is widely used in traditional Chinese music, particularly in folk tunes, classical Chinese opera, and contemporary compositions. It plays an important role in Chinese orchestras, providing the alto voice within the string section.
Components	Resonator (Body), Neck, Strings, Tuning Pegs, Bridge, Bow, Snake Skin Cover
Construction	The zhonghu is constructed with a wooden body, traditionally made from hardwoods such as red sandalwood or rosewood. The front of the resonator is covered with a membrane of python skin, which gives the instrument its unique tonal quality. The neck is slender and supports the tuning pegs, which are used to tighten or loosen the metal strings. The bridge is positioned on the snake skin cover, transmitting the vibrations of the strings to the body. The bow, which is made of horsehair, is placed between the two strings and moves horizontally across them to produce sound.
Size and Weight	The zhonghu typically measures about 80 to 90 centimeters (31 to 35 inches) in length. It is relatively lightweight, usually weighing between 1 and 2 kilograms (2.2 to 4.4 pounds), depending on the materials used for its construction.
Variations and Customizations	Variations of the zhonghu include different types of wood for the body, which can slightly alter the instrument’s tonal characteristics. Some musicians opt for zhonghus with a synthetic membrane instead of traditional python skin to achieve a more consistent sound and durability. Modern versions may include fine-tuning pegs for more precise control over pitch. Additionally, custom-made zhonghus may have intricate carvings or decorations on the body to reflect the player’s personal aesthetic preferences.
Instrument History	The zhonghu was developed in the mid-20th century as part of an effort to expand the tonal range of traditional Chinese orchestras. It was designed to fill the alto register, which was lacking in Chinese string instruments at the time. The instrument was modeled after the erhu but built with a larger resonating body and longer strings to produce a deeper sound. Over the years, it has become a standard instrument in Chinese orchestras and has been featured in numerous traditional and contemporary compositions.
Similar Types of Instrument	Erhu, Gaohu, Violin
Playing Technique	The zhonghu is played in a seated position, with the resonator resting on the player’s thigh. The player uses the left hand to press the strings along the neck, while the right hand moves the bow horizontally across the strings to produce sound. Unlike Western string instruments, the bow is positioned between the two strings, allowing the player to switch between them seamlessly. The player uses a variety of techniques, such as vibrato and glissando, to add expressiveness to the music. The instrument’s size and tuning make it ideal for producing smooth, flowing melodies, as well as more intense, emotive passages.
Learning Difficulty	Moderate to high; while the basic playing techniques are similar to those of the erhu, mastering the zhonghu requires skill in controlling the bow and finger pressure to produce its characteristic deep, resonant sound. The instrument’s larger size and thicker strings can be more challenging for beginners to handle, requiring practice to develop the necessary finger strength and dexterity.
Notable Composers	Notable composers who have utilized the zhonghu in their works include Liu Wenjin and Zhao Jiping. These composers have incorporated the instrument into both traditional Chinese compositions and orchestral works.
Famous Works	The zhonghu is featured in compositions such as “Great Wall Capriccio” by Liu Wenjin and “The Silk Road Fantasia Suite” by Zhao Jiping. These pieces highlight the instrument’s ability to produce rich, deep tones that add a unique texture to Chinese orchestral music.
Notable Performances	The zhonghu is commonly performed in Chinese orchestras during cultural events, traditional music concerts, and national celebrations.
Famous Orchestras/Bands	The zhonghu is regularly used in traditional Chinese orchestras, including the China National Traditional Orchestra and the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra. It also appears in regional folk ensembles and modern fusion groups that explore the integration of traditional Chinese instruments into contemporary music genres.
Maintenance	Proper maintenance of the zhonghu involves regularly cleaning the strings and bow to remove rosin buildup and dirt. The python skin membrane should be kept in a controlled environment to prevent cracking or warping due to humidity changes. Strings need to be replaced periodically to maintain the instrument’s tonal quality, and the tuning pegs should be checked to ensure they hold the strings’ tension correctly.
Price Range	Zhonghus range in price from $200 to $1,500, depending on the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and whether the instrument is custom-made. Higher-end models made with premium woods and traditional python skin can be more expensive.