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Post by bing on Sept 13, 2010 5:22:55 GMT
I will be going to Shanghai/ Suzhou in November to obtain a better erhu; it's a matter very close to my heart.
I would appreciate advice about makers in the area. I would much prefer to deal with the makers directly, if possible. My budget is $1,000 - $1500USD. Any advice from those more experienced in this would be appreciated; I've lived and worked in Guangxi, but never been to Shanghai area before. I do have a relative who is familiar with the area that will be traveling with me who can serve as interpreter, I'm American. Thanks
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Post by davidmdahl on Sept 14, 2010 0:07:03 GMT
I suspect that contact information for good erhu makers will be rather closely guarded secrets. You might try to use family connections in China to contact music schools and conservatories. Erhu makers and teachers will probably prefer to save their best instruments for their best students and established artists but it is worth a try. It could help if you have a family connection such as a cousin who is best buds with the son of a erhu maker. <g>
There is a yearly musical instrument show in Shanghai near the end of the year, maybe November. That could be a unique opportunity to try out a bunch of good instruments. I don't know if just anyone can get in though. You might check with Sung Wah at Eason Music for details.
Best wishes,
David
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Post by bing on Sept 16, 2010 1:11:49 GMT
Thank you, David.
I have no reason to doubt what you write, but it startles me that their whereabouts are secret. Is there a shortage of good erhus to meet demand?
Imagine attempting to seek out a guitar or violin maker in the USA and discovering that their whereabouts are secret. Never.
Nevertheless, I'm going to Shanghai/Suzhou in November and try my luck, come what may.
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Post by davidmdahl on Sept 16, 2010 2:52:28 GMT
I am afraid that stocks of the woods and snake skins that are most favored for high quality erhus are becoming in short supply. People in China are earning more money, and are more interested in traditional instruments such as the erhu. Some makers prefer to sell their best instruments to good local musicians, rather than tourists and dilettantes who will not enhance their reputation. Anyway, that is the story I have heard.
Regarding contacts for erhu makers, I have no doubt that you could contact the big boys, such as Dunhuang. You will probably get a better instrument at a better price from a smaller maker. I suspect that music stores will be hesitant to give you contact information for their suppliers. After all, they want to sell you an erhu, not enable you to cut them out of the deal. But, you never know. If you can contact musicians, they might be able to refer you.
Good luck. I hope it works out. It sounds like it could be a lot of fun.
Best wishes,
David
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