"The teaching method often incorporates storytelling, where the Chinese instructors share tales about the origins of the erhu and its role in traditional Chinese music. This context enriches the learning experience, helping students appreciate the instrument beyond mere technicality," he says.

Dou also notes that the school founded in 1962 has a deep connection with China and Chinese culture, from language and dance to martial arts, which are also taught in the school.

In July, 21 students and teachers of Colegio Peruano Chino Juan XXIII came to China, led by Zhang, who spent three months in Peru teaching them to play the instrument from May to July.

"They came to Beijing to experience Chinese culture and most importantly, showcase their erhu skills by playing traditional Chinese music pieces. Through the sounds of the erhu, students are not only discovering a new instrument but also bridging the gap between two rich musical traditions, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's cultures," says Zhang.