written by: Gavin Wills
Violin is among the most vital instruments in an orchestra. Among the string collection of musical instruments it is the smallest. It produces sound when the string is plucked by the finger or the bow is drawn across the four strings. String instruments have a similar manner of producing sound. The major disparity is the size of the instrument and how low or high an instrument can sound. The violin has its origin in Europe and has spread to other parts of the globe. It is considered an exquisite and elegant musical instrument. The violin information below is essential for those who are passionate about the instrument.
Types Of Violin
This musical instrument is available in different types. One type is the bass violin which was the first among all types to be made. The other types include the nail, Stroh and kit violins. There is another type which was invented recently, it is the electric one. This type requires electricity to play it. These instruments are also classified into different fields. They are classified depending with the era they were made. Violins produced in different eras have unique features. They are also classified depending with the age of persons who will use it. Another classification is the modern and classical violins.
Care and Maintenance of the Violin
Violins need much care to protect them from being damaged. They should be stored in a place where the temperature and humidity are just perfect. You should also know how to hold it since there are specific places for holding the instrument. If you hold different parts of the instrument, the varnish will be damaged and cracks will be created. Violins should be cleaned with a spongy rug and the strings should be changed occasionally. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the instrument is very necessary if you want long term services.
Tuning the Instrument
Tuning the instrument is time consuming as opposed to playing it. Tuning should be done every time or every day, after taking it out of its case. For a start the instrument is tuned by the teacher for the students but the students will eventually learn how to tune their instruments. Tuning will determine the kind of sound the instrument will produce. Violins are available in two pieces, the bow and the instrument. A synthetic material or horsehair is used in making the strings vibrate by drawing it over the instrument. You should tighten the bow before using and loosen it before storing it.
Playing the Instrument
You should place the violin on the left-hand side under your chin when playing it. Place a shoulder pad on the left shoulder under the instrument. Your teacher may recommend the use of a pad that is attached to the lower side of the instrument. Your right hand should hold the bow drawing it over the four strings. Your posture, hands position and arm position are very crucial during the beginning stages. It is not advisable for beginners to practice broadly without being guided by the teacher. Bad habits developed in the beginning sessions might be hard to break. The violin information above is very important.
Violins come in different sizes to suit children and adults of various age. Here is a violins for beginners guide that can help you choose the right size of musical instrument that fits your needs:
Violin Types
Generally, the violin has two types. However, violin makers from all parts of the world have created different types for select brands. Here is a look at the two basic types of violin:
1. Electric
This type of musical instrument utilizes an electronic signal output. Violins for beginners are not usually of the electric type since the latter is more suited for expert players. Electric violins produce a sharper sound than that of the acoustic type.
2. Non-Electric or Acoustic
Non-electric violins are conventional and are appropriate for first-time learners. This type of instrument is usually seen in pictures and movies. It is usually played for folk and traditional music.
Violins can also be categorized by time.
1. Modern
Recent instruments have sharper angles on its neck. The strings are adjusted to a higher pitch and the wood material used is thin and small.
2. Classic
Old models have smaller heels and a thinner neck.
3. Baroque
Baroque violins are more ornamental. They have shallow neck and angles compared to the two other types. Shoulder and chin rests weren't given much importance in the construction of such violins.
This popular musical instrument can also be classified by country. Violins were very popular in places like Italy, China, Germany, Korea and Hungary. The most costly pieces came from Italy while the cheapest ones originated from China.
Violin Sizes
Violins for beginners were made to suit an individual's size and capabilities. The different violin dimensions are:
1. Full Size Violin ( 4/4) The full-size violin is intended for 9 year old individuals and above. Most adults use this size of musical instrument. It has an average arm length of approximately 23.5.
2. 3/4 (Three-Fourth) Nine to eleven year old children can play this size. Its arm length is 22 to 23.5 inches.
3. 1/2 (One-Half) Six to 10 year old children use this violin size.
4. 1/4 (One-Fourth) This violin has an arm length of 17.6 to 20in. It is suitable for 4-7 year old kids.
5. 1/8 (One-Eighth) Children with an arm length of 17.1 - 17.5in will fit this violin size.
6. 1/10 (One-Tenth) Younger violinists, usually those between the age 3 and 5, use this size.
7. 1/16 (One-Sixteenth) This violin has an arm length of 14 - 15 3/8 inches. It is mostly used by three to five year old children.
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