Violin

Violin

The violin is a string instrument in the violin family. It is the smallest and highest-pitched instrument in the family in regular use. The violin typically has four strings, usually tuned in perfect fifths, and is most commonly played by drawing a bow across its strings. It can also be played by plucking the strings with the fingers (pizzicato).

History

The violin first emerged in northern Italy in the early 16th century, especially from the Brescia and Cremona regions. Some of the earliest violins were made by Andrea Amati.

Construction and mechanics

A violin is usually made from different types of wood, with spruce for the top and maple for the back and sides. The violin bow is typically made from horsehair and Pernambuco wood.

Playing the violin

Playing the violin involves holding the instrument under the chin, supported by the shoulder. The strings are sounded either by drawing the bow across them (bowing), or by plucking them (pizzicato).

Violin techniques

Various violin techniques have developed over time, including vibrato, double stopping, harmonics, and col legno.

Violin in music genres

The violin is used extensively in classical music, folk music, jazz, and rock and roll. It has also been incorporated into some forms of popular music.

See also

• Violin family
• Violin making and maintenance
• Violin technique
• Violin concerto
• Violin sonata

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