1. Erhu A two-stringed bowed chordophone, has a hollow wooden cylindrical body with a snakeskin sounding board. History: *has been performed since the 14th century in regional operatic, narrative and ensemble music Famous composers/performers: *Liu Tianhua *Abin Famous pieces: *The Moon Mirrored in the Pool *Listening to the Pines *Beautiful Moonlig Eve

2. Yangqin A trapezoidal-shaped hammer dulcimer. History: introduced from the middle East sometime around the 15th century Modern time: more bridges and strings Functions: *in orchestra, operatic and solo *in minority music ensembles in western China

3. Yueqin A short-necked plucked lute with a large round sounding box Popular Name: Moon Guitar Types: *four-stringed model *one-stringed model Functions: *an important accompanying instrument in Peking opera *an orchestral instrument

4. Jinghu A two-stringed, spiked, bamboo piccolo fiddle. Feature: *higher-pitched Function: *the principal melodic instrument in Peking opera Famous piece: *Deep Night