Basic Violin 101

Here is some information for beginners and those who need a brush up course on violins. Feel free to e-mail additional information you would like to see added in updates to me.

As we travel together through the study of the violin, we'll explore variations in instruments, music, musicians, teaching habits, study habits, etc. You are invited to share your experiences with us at all times - whether you're not in kindergarten yet (have your guardian help, if needed!)or whether you are over 100!

(1) The violin is from the string family. It is made of wood with steel, nylon or gut strings, and vary in size for 2 year- olds to adult. Although the hollow body is usually around 14 inches (36cm) in length. The violin is also the smallest member of the string family, with the shortest strings, thus producing the highest sound. There are more violins in an orchestra than any other single instrument. The violin evolved from the Rebec and the Lira da braccio. During the 1500's, the instrument developed full force in Northern Italy.

(2)Has a pitch range of at least 3 octaves. Sounds are produced by the vibration of the strings. Earliest violins had 3 strings, but now they have 4.

(3)The major parts of a violin are: chin rest, bridge, strings, f holes, scroll, tuning pegs, finger board, fine tuners, tail piece, and the bow.

The neck extends out one end of the body and contains the fingerboard. Press your fingers against this fingerboard to change pitch. Four strings stretched across this fingerboard and body are attached upper ends to each of four tuning pegs. Tightening or loosening these pegs changes the pitch. Tuners may also be used for exacting pitch.

Strings are supported by the bridge. They can be played in succession or individually, thus producing a wide variety of sounds. A player might pluck the strings instead of bowing ( called pizzicato), or perhaps play chords by bowing 2 strings at one time.

The f-holes are sound holes shaped like the letter 'F'. Vibrating air travels through these, making the violin sound louder.

A chin rest is to provide comfort for the player. Children often insert a piece of foam or other soft substance with a rubber band in this chin rest, to provide additional comfort during their growing years.

(4)This instrument has been constructed to withstand a downward force, by its 4 strings on the bridge, of as much as 17 pounds (7.7 kgs.). Since its size and string tension are so ideal for the hand, the violin is said to be "built for singing."

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