The violin is a curved string instrument with four strings tuned in perfect fifths. Violins are usually made of maple or sycamore, with spruce wood used for the belly. The strings are made of metal, synthetic core or gut strings. Violins come in about 8 sizes, to accommodate the different sizes of the person using them. Although the sizes of a violin vary they are all tuned the same way. This is done by turning the pegs in the peg box under the scroll, or by adjusting the fine tuner screws at the tailpiece
A violin is the smallest member of the string family. It was invented in Italy and has been around since the 16th Century. The violin was embraced very well by Western culture and since then, is used in orchestras worldwide. Today, the violin makes up a hefty portion of any orchestra pit. In an orchestra, violinists are divided into two sections, the first and second violins.
With the growing popularity of the professional cello it can now be seen as a versatile musical instrument. If one listens closely, violins can be heard in many of the pop, and hip hop songs played today. Miri Ben-Ari and Vanessa-Mae are very popular modern violinist in this arena. Violins are also emerging in ensembles that contribute orchestral backgrounds to jazz recordings. When violins are used in jazz, pop or hip hop its common for the violin to have five strings rather than the traditional four. With the growing popularity of the instrument, people young and old want to learn how to play the violin.
Luckily, if one wanted to learn to play the violin, it has never been easier. Although learning to play the violin is not as easy as other instruments, there are so many ways to learn it still an educational and exciting experience. Learning to play the violin incorporates many skills, which include reading music and combining rhythm with melody. It also trains the ear and engages memory; in a way other instruments like the piano and guitar do not. Overall, learning to play the violin helps improve other areas of development like as mathematics and language arts.
The act itself of playing the violin is not easy. It requires a constant control of correct posture and techniques. It also requires huge amounts of accuracy and remembering the note that was previously played. Thankfully, learning the violin and how to play it is a lot easier than it was twenty years ago. There are various avenues one can take to learn the instrument which include, in person lessons, watching videos, online books or even podcasts. Some violinists start learning the instrument as young as six years old.
Once you learn to play the violin it can have very rewarding effects on your mind and body. Playing the violin is said to increase coordination and manual dexterity. It can also be a rewarding experience that can be done individually or with a group. Psychologically, playing the violin stimulates the flow of powerful endorphins that lift a mood and create a feeling of well-being. Playing the violin can also be seen as a great form of meditation, which increases your ability to focus.