Erhu Universal Fingering

The erhu (Erhu) is a stringed instrument with strong ethnic characteristics, widely popular in China and other parts of Asia. Erhu playing techniques are rich and varied, and fingering is one of the most important aspects. While there is no absolute one-size-fits-all fingering, there are some basic fingerings and techniques that can help you master Erhu playing. Here are some suggested basic fingering techniques for the erhu:

1. Scale fingering:

Scales are the foundation of erhu playing. When playing scales, pay attention to using the correct fingering. Usually, the index, middle and ring fingers are used to play the high register, while the little finger and thumb are used to play the low register. Specific fingerings can be adjusted according to the arrangement of the scale to better express the melody.

2. glissando fingering:

Glissando is an important technique in Erhu playing, which is used to express the ups and downs of the melody and emotions. The glissando fingering mainly includes the upper glissando and lower glissando. When playing the upper glissando, the finger is lifted up quickly after sliding over the note to produce an ascending effect; when playing the lower glissando, the finger is pressed down quickly after sliding over the note to produce a descending effect. The speed and amplitude of the glissando can be adjusted according to the style and emotion of the piece.

3. Vibrato fingering:

Vibrato is a technique that expresses the melody through rapid and continuous vibration of the fingers. Vibrato is usually used in lyrical and melodic melodies. When playing the vibrato, the fingers flutter rapidly on top of the original note, creating a wave-like effect. The speed and amplitude of the vibrato can be adjusted according to the style and emotion of the piece.

4. Overtone fingering:

Overtone is a special sound effect produced by playing special note positions. Overtone is usually used to express a melody that is melodic and clear. When playing overtones, the fingers are lightly touched on top of the notes to produce a muffled sound. The strength and position of the overtones need to be adjusted according to the style and emotion of the piece.

5. Vibrato fingering:

Vibrato is a technique that changes the pitch and timbre of a note by rolling the fingers back and forth across the strings. Vibrato can make a melody softer and more melodic. The speed and amplitude of the vibrato can be adjusted according to the style and mood of the piece.