BOWED-STRINGED INSTRUMENTS

The Bowed-Stringed Instrument section is best at playing sad songs.

The 3 most well-known instruments in this section are the:

1. Erhu (Chinese Fiddle)
2. Zhonghu (Lower Pitch than the Erhu)
3. Gaohu (Higher Pitch than the Erhu)

The 2 not so well-known instruments are the:

1. Gehu (Now replaced by the Violoncello [Cello])
2. Di-Yin Gehu (Now replaced by the Double-Bass)

The Erhu is one of the most popular instruments in the Chinese Orchestra. It uses a horsehair bow and two strings. The bow is moved against the strings. When it (the bow) rubs againstthe strings, it produces a sound like a violin, thats why the Erhu, GaohuandZhonghuare called the Chinese Fiddles. The Erhu is usually divided into 1st and 2nd parts like violins. The erhu is almost the same as an ordinary violin, except that it has a smaller resonating chamber.

The Gehu, which is now replaced by the Violoncello (more commonly known as the Cello), is no longer in use. It has 4 strings. When the bow is moved against the strings, it produces a "moaning" sound. The timbre of the Gehu (and the Violoncello) is rich, mellow and strong.

The Di-Yin Gehu, which is now replaced by the Double-Bass, looks like the Gehubut the sound that it makes is the lowest in the whole orchestra (excluding drums). The timbre of the Di-Yin Gehu (and the Double-Bass) is strong, rich, low and loud.