Frequently Asked Questions About Violin

The world of music is diverse. There are many, many different instruments that help develop a composition into a living thing that captures the ears, mind and heart of people. It is easy to name off a few instruments. Most people can easily identify a guitar, a set of drums or a bass because they see these used in rock bands all over the world. It is when you are entering into the realm of string and wind instruments that people become confused. The violin is probably the most well known string instrument in existence. It has been a part of the music culture for a long time and it can be used in many different compositions. If you do not know much about this remarkable instrument, you are in luck because this article can help you out.

What is a violin?

A violin is a four stringed bowed instrument. It is tuned to perfect fifths and is the smallest and most high-pitched of the violin family of stringed instruments. It is in the same family as the cello and the viola. The name is from a Middle Latin word vitula which means “stringed instrument.” If you play this instrument you are called a violinist or a fiddler. The actual sound coming from the instrument is made by either using a bow to draw across the strings or it is plucked. It is a very diverse instrument that has had a monumental impact on the world of music.

Is a fiddle the same as a violin?

Yes, the fiddle is the exact same instrument as the violin. The difference is often in how it is played and what type of music it creates. Most fiddles are used heavily in country music or in folk music. The sound is slightly different because it is usually played more aggressively without the fine, delicate notes that a violinist may produce. A great example of a classic song in which a fiddle plays a prominent role is the Charlie Daniel’s song “Devil Went Down to Georgia.” The fiddle is often altered to produce the unique sounds and making it easier to play chords with less trouble. It is common to find the bridged shaved down so that it is not as curvy as the violin.

When was the violin created?

There have been stringed instruments dating back to the Ancient Greeks but the bowed instrument that most resembles a violin or a fiddle can be traced by to certain cultures in Central Asia. The earliest examples were the Morin huur from Mongolia, the erhu from China, the esraj from India and the rebab from the Middle East. The violin that we have now came about in the early part of the 16th century in Italy. It was thanks to the trade routes on the Silk Road that we have the instrument that is so prominent today. The oldest violin that there is documented evidence on was constructed in 1555 by Andrea Amati. The date is questioned but there is one that is dated 1560 and is called the “Charles IX” which was created in Cremona, Italy. The world is lucky that there are still surviving violins from the 16th to the 18th century. Many of which are highly sought after by performers and collectors.

What types of musical genres are performed on the violin?

There is literally no limit on the type of music that a violin or fiddle can produce. It is a very versatile instrument that can be used for classical, folk, country, jazz, rock and alternative music. The only limit is the musician and the music that is written for this wonderful instrument. It is an instrument that has truly had a huge impact on the world of music. From pieces in classical especially written for this four-stringed wonder to solos in rock pieces, this is an instrument that can perform in all genres.

Do violins come in different sizes?

Yes, violins do come in smaller sizes so that smaller people or children are able to play the violin. The size of a typical 4/4 full size violin is around 14 inches. ¾ violins are around 13 inches and ½ violins are around 12 inches. As you can see the fractional size of the violins does not actually represent the body length. You can find violins in ¾, ½, ¼, 1/8, 1/10 and 1/16. The smaller that you go; the rougher the violins are because they are generally slated as beginner violins. You can find a 7/8 violin that is often called a “lady’s violin” which is just a fine of an instrument as a full size instrument.

Where can I find a good violin so I can learn to play?

The best place to find a good violin is a local music store. The store will ensure that the instrument is tuned properly and that the strings are in good shape before they sell it to you. You will also have the comfort of knowing that if you get home and discover a flaw, you can take it back. Now…there are other venues that you can find violins. You can search on Ebay and pick one up for a very reasonable price but you have to take the seller’s word that the instrument is in good working condition. You may also be able to find this instrument in pawn shops or the newspaper.