15 Facts About Min Huifen

Min Huifen was a performer of the erhu, a traditional Chinese bowed string instrument, and a composer.

Min Huifen was considered the undisputed master of the instrument, nicknamed the "Queen of Erhu".

Min Huifen's father began teaching her to play the erhu when she was eight.

Min Huifen studied at the Affiliated High School of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, and then at the Department of Traditional Chinese Music of the Conservatory.

Min Huifen's experience made her well versed in both the southern and northern traditions of the erhu.

Min Huifen was a member of the China National Art Troupe, and later became the solo erhu performer of the Shanghai Art Troupe.

In 1989, Min Huifen famously performed in support of the Tiananmen Square protests.

Min Huifen's music is a unique blend of multiple genres of traditional Chinese music, including the Peking opera, the Yue opera, and the music of Chaozhou.

In 1981, Min Huifen was diagnosed with cancer, and underwent six major operations and fifteen courses of chemotherapy in the next five years.

However, Min Huifen still suffered from many health problems, including high blood pressure and hyperlipidemia.

Min Huifen never woke up again, and died on 12 May 2014 at Renji Hospital in Shanghai.

Min Huifen's father Min Jiqian, who outlived her, was a student of the erhu master Liu Tianhua.

Min Huifen's brother Min Lekang is a national first-class conductor and music professor.

Min Huifen's younger sister, Min Xiaofen, is a well known pipa player.

Min Huifen's son, Liu Ju, is a well-known conductor.