Every Note has a History
Meet the instruments we play.
The Erhu
Often called the “Chinese violin,” this thousand year old instrument only has two strings, but its voice is rich and full of emotion. Played with a bow locked between the strings, it can sing with a human-like quality; aching, joyful, or quietly haunting.
The Dizi
The dizi is a bamboo flute known for its clear, bright tone and distinctive buzzing edge. Light and agile, it can flit like a bird or dance like wind through trees. A small membrane gives it a shimmer that’s unmistakably Chinese: lively, crisp, and full of character.
The Pipa
The pipa is a four-stringed lute with a pear-shaped body and a bold, expressive voice. Its rapid fingerwork and wide range of techniques make it both percussive and lyrical. From thunderous strums to delicate plucks, the pipa tells stories that are as dramatic as they are timeless.
The Guzheng
The guzheng is a two thousand year old plucked zither with a long, elegant body and moveable bridges. Its bright, rippling tones can sound like flowing water, quick laughter, or distant winds. With every brush and bend of its 21 strings, it brings centuries of Chinese music into the present: graceful, expressive, and full of life.
Guzheng
古筝
Dizi
笛子
Erhu
二胡
Pipa
琵琶
who are the lanterns?
We are Flying Lanterns, a group of longtime friends based in the Netherlands brought together by our love for music. Our name was inspired by the Lantern Festival, when glowing lanterns drift into the night sky like melodies set free.

On stage, you’ll hear the voices of the erhu, pipa, guzheng, and dizi: each unique, yet weaving together as one. From traditional Chinese tunes to modern arrangements on ancient instruments, we invite you to join us for a journey filled with the spirit and charm of the East.
Contact and Socials
Interested in seeing us perform?
Thinking about booking a show?
Or maybe you’re just curious about traditional Chinese music?

Here’s how you can reach us:
Instagram
@flying.lanterns.music
Facebook
@flying.lanterns.nl
E-mail
info@flying-lanterns.nl
© 2025 Flying Lanterns
Flying Lanterns Foundation: KvK 97912182, RSIN 868285742
Design and code: Tenchi, images: Freepik