Violin
Violin
Violin (/vaɪˈlɪn/; also known informally as a fiddle) is a string instrument usually with four strings tuned in perfect fifths. It is the smallest, highest-pitched member of the violin family of string instruments, which also includes the viola and cello.
Etymology
The word "violin" comes from the Middle Latin word vitula, meaning stringed instrument. This word is also believed to be the source of the Germanic "fiddle".
History
The violin first emerged in northern Italy in the early 16th century, especially from the Brescia area. Many of the early violins were made by luthiers such as Andrea Amati and Gasparo da Salò.
Construction and mechanics
A violin is usually made from different types of wood, with the top made from spruce and the back from maple. The strings are made from gut, synthetic core, or steel.
Playing the violin
The violin is played by drawing a bow across one or more strings (which may be stopped by the fingers of the other hand to produce a full range of pitches), by plucking the strings (with either hand), or by a variety of other techniques.
Related terms
- Bow (music)
- Fiddle
- Viola
- Cello
- String instrument
- Violin family
- Violin making and maintenance
- Violin technique
- Violin concerto
- Violin sonata
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Violin
- Wikipedia's article - Violin
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