The Distinguished History Of The Violin

By Jim Samposzi

The violin, a music maker of the category of stringed type instruments, has deep roots in the history of the world. Although nobody can say for sure, many believe the violin to have been invented in the late 700's in Asia. But, it is highly debated and no historian has exact proof. Either way, the first of the type you notice these days was not seen until the 1400's. Before this time, many lookalikes existed but none like today's violin. Some of the older kinds of violin-type instruments were:

The Vielle - Europe 11th century

The Rote - Europe 11th century

The Ancient Vielle - France 13th century

The Viola de Gamba - Italy 16th century

Lira de Braccio - Italy 16th century

Viola de Braccio - Italy 16th century

Vyollon - France 16th century

Violino - Italy 16th century

Viewing the list above, it is obvious that Italy had major influence on violin-type instruments before the major overhaul of the violin. Though, the first mention of the word Violin was said in Great Britain during the 16th century. The Italians however took it to the next level and built a form resembling today's style in the late 1500's. By this time, Italians took the lead on building string instruments that closely resembled the violin. Also, it is vital to point out that these violins started with three strings and finally began being built with 4 but not until the later part of the 16th century.

After time, violin manufacturers from Germany, Austria, Holland, England, Norway, and Spain jumped in the mix and by the 1600's, many European manufacturers got involved in the craft. The construction of these wonderful instruments declined in the 1700's as nobody was able to expand upon the design. In addition, the Baroque era, a time and era in music wherein the violin was the premier instrument, died. So, many did not demand this sound any longer. Many tests and tinkering took place to enhance the look but hold on to the existing shape and sound quality. There were a lot of failing and violin sales plummeted in the 19th century.

It was not until the 1930's that manufacturers perfected the design into the classical and traditional one we know of today. The signature f-holes were conceived and included on all new model violins during the 30's. Today, they all have the f-holes and classical scroll at the top that makes them all unique. Even if this instrument played no music at all, you cannot deny the beauty of the construction. The violin is like no other instrument and is a well-known instrument today. The violin is a very popular instrument to be learned by students of elementary and grammar schools. Although it is considered a tricky one to learn, this instrument is practiced for years so one can perfect the sound.

No matter the origin, the violin is a unique and powerful addition to musical groups, orchestras, and chamber groups. The melody produced from this instrument is beautiful. Today, the violin is included in pop and rock even with certain melodies. The violin is regularly tested by manufacturers to come out with an even better violin! - 18780

About the Author:

Jim Samposzi is a journalist with over 12 years editorial experience. Jim is presently working as a freelance writer for many well-known b2b portals and has become the resident guru on violins. Visit our web portal for additional information on Hard Violin Case and Violin Case.