Four hu

In Mandarin Chinese, "Four hu" (四胡, pinyin: sì hú) refers to a bowed stringed instrument of the huqin family. It is primarily used in the folk music traditions of Inner Mongolia and other regions of northern China.

The sì hú typically has a small, cylindrical or hexagonal soundbox made of wood, often covered with snakeskin or other material. It has four strings, usually tuned in fifths. The bow is passed between the two inner strings and the two outer strings, creating a continuous drone-like accompaniment to the melody. The player uses their fingers to stop the strings on a fretless neck, producing a variety of pitches and glissando effects.

The instrument plays a crucial role in accompanying folk songs, dances, and storytelling performances. Its distinct sound and timbre contribute to the unique character of Mongolian and northern Chinese musical traditions. The sì hú is considered an important cultural symbol in the regions where it is prevalent, reflecting the history and artistic expression of its people. While similar to other huqin instruments, the specific construction, tuning, and playing style of the sì hú distinguish it within the family.