Traveling over 8,000 kilometers from the Netherlands to Shanghai, Dutch violinist Anastasia Fridman has embarked on a remarkable musical journey to master the erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument.
Already skilled with the violin, Fridman was captivated by the haunting melodies of the erhu. “The erhu’s sound resonates deeply with me,” she shared. “It expresses emotions in a way that’s both familiar and entirely new.”
Now studying at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, she is immersing herself in Chinese musical traditions. “Being here allows me to learn from masters of the erhu,” Fridman said. “It’s a journey of discovery and growth.”
The erhu, often referred to as the “Chinese violin,” has only two strings but is capable of profound musical expression. Fridman sees it as a bridge between her Western classical background and the rich heritage of Eastern music.
“Music transcends borders,” she noted. “By combining the violin and the erhu, we can create a dialogue between cultures.”
Fridman’s journey illustrates the power of music to connect people across the world. Her passion not only enriches her own musical repertoire but also fosters cultural exchange. “I hope to share what I’ve learned with others,” she said. “Through music, we can understand each other better.”
As she continues her studies, Fridman looks forward to new musical discoveries. “Every day here is inspiring,” she enthused. “I can’t wait to see where this journey leads.”
