Erhu questions

[stratocasterev]

Hi, I live in the UK and I'm really wanting to get an erhu and learn to play it. My main problem is trying to find a decent instrument that doesn't cost too much. The only one I've really found is this but I'm not really very sure of the quality though:
www.amazon.co.uk/String-Chinese-Violin-Rigid-Spares/dp/B003PBO034

Do any of you have any other suggestions for a good beginner Erhu? I'm not really wanting to spend too much more than £150 though. I've also had a look for lessons but I don't think I'll be able to find a teacher in my area either, so any ideas on where to start with teaching myself?

Cheers!

[davidmdahl]

Welcome to the forum, stratocasterev. I can't say I am impressed with the erhu in the link. It is hard to tell for sure, but it looks like the body is laquered rather than natural wood -- not a good sign. Anything in the Eason Music line-up would be more trust-worthy. If you are going to study seriously with a teacher, I suggestion anything in the "Professional" section and up. For just playing around with on your own, get what you can afford. A better erhu will be easier to play, and sound better. I suggest contacting Eason Music by email for their suggestions.

www.eason.com.sg/products/products_erhu.jsp

Best wishes,

David

[song]

Hi Strato

We have some good value and affordable instruments here you can consider:

www.eason.com.sg/products/products_erhu.jsp#starter

We will setup and test your erhu before sending it out.

As for lessons, we have some free youtube lessons. We are also working on some paid online lessons which will be available very soon.

Thanks!
SW

[stratocasterev]

Thanks for the help guys, I'll definitely get one from Eason. Think I'll probably go for the starter one with the bronze tuning mechanism and then hopefully upgrade when I get better. Do the bronze tuning pegs make any difference sound wise or does it just make it easier to keep it in tune?

Thanks again!

[stratocasterev]

Ok! Being as indecisive as I am I changed my mind and decided to opt for the Professional Suzhou Rosewood. Looking forward to getting it ordered now!