Music in traditional China is influenced by philosophy and concepts of important historical thinkers such as Confucius. Music is considered a highly calming influence, examples of this approach being space and fluency in performance.
Well known string instruments include the pipa, a tear-drop shaped four string lute, which features techniques such as a rapid strum. The erh-hu is a bowed string instrument, which consists of two strings without a fretboard. Its curved bow is permanently held between its strings which causes both to vibrate as it is played.
Dr. Sean Lin’s Remarks at Texas CPDC Threat Briefing