Erhu vs. Haegeum

I would like to introduce a Chinese instrument I'm learning in this semester: Erhu

Picture of Erhu

Erhu is one kind of violin (fiddle) with two strings which, together with other instruments belongs to the "Huqin" family. The name "Huqin" literally means "barbarian instrument." This implies that the instrument were likely to be originated from regions to the north or west of China. It is said that its origin would be dated up to the Tang dynasty (618-907) from a Mongolian tribe Xi. During Song dynasty (960-1279), the instrument was introduced to China and was called "Ji Qin," and it started to played at the imperial banquets. During the Dynasties of Yuan (1206-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911), the Erhu underwent a great development at the time of the golden age of the local operas.

There is a reason why I'm introducing Erhu here.

Picture of Haegeum

Looks similar? Sounds similar? This instrument is not Erhu, but is "Haegeum," a traditional Korean string instrument. The Haegeum is one of the most widely used instruments in Korean music. It is not clear that how Haegeum introduced in Korea. According to the several references, Haegeum was found in "Hanlimbyulgok" (a Royal archivist unrhymed verse) produced during Koryo dynasty. During the Choson Dynasty, Haegeum was used in various Kinds of music: Royal ancestral rites music, parade music, Festival music, and Hyangak.

Before I started playing Erhu, I thought Haegeum was a traditional Korean instrument that was originated in the country. But Considering the similarity between two instruments and the dates that each instrument was introduced in China and Korea, I think Haegeum is originated from Erhu and is one of the great examples represents Chinese cultural influence to Korea. Also, it is interesting that ancient Chinese states, which were considered to be a great spreader of their culture (in perspective of Korea), was also influenced by their nearby neighbors like Mongolian tribe Xi. The further interesting fact is that Haegeum served as a "royal" instrument during Choson Period, which is traced back to its ultimate origin from Mongol whom they considered as a "Barbarian." Did they know this fact? This is something that only people of Choson could answer.

Source:

http://www.philmultic.com/home/instruments/erhu.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haegeum

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