The Violin

By Yvette Fragozo

The violin. This gorgeous four-stringed instrument was invented in early 16th century Italy. With strings typically tuned to G3, D4, A4, and E5, the hollowed-body wooden instrument has universal musical capabilities.

To begin, the violin is a very important instrument in classical music. It plays most of the melody line in this genre and is known for its expressiveness and tone. In an orchestra, there are two sections of violins: first violins and second violins. First violins play the melody, while second violins harmonize. In this style, there are many techniques such as col legno, spiccato, and double harmonics. Col legno is the technique where the wood of the bow strikes the string, in order to create a muffled staccato sound. In classical pieces, it is intended to make the listeners anxious and attentive. There’s a reason why many composers have made so many violin concertos! The violin is so versatile, the combinations are endless.

Next, the violin has influenced Jazz. In Jazz, the violin is highlighted as a solo instrument. Since the violin is so versatile, it is able to emulate the feeling of any song; Jazz is no exception. Improvised violin lines add a flair to any Jazz piece, stemming from legendary players like Eddie South. He is credited for combining Classical music and Jazz. Eddie played Praeludium and Allegro in a swing style, and his style was heavily influenced by Fritz Kreisler. He took influence from classical music and created his own interpretation. Jazz is known for improvisation, and the violin created the perfect platform for it. The violin allowed for musical styles to be combined, introducing new forms of expression. In addition to South; Stéphane Grappelli, Joe Venuti, and Hezekiah Smith are known for introducing violin to Jazz. They paved the way for many modern violinists in Jazz.

In addition, the violin has made an impact on mariachi music. The violin has many solos and is of great importance in this genre. Important techniques in this genre are pizzicato, vibrato, and spiccato. In mariachi groups, you can find three violin sections: first violin, second violin, and third violin. These parts not only blend, but in some instances, the first violin has a solo, while the other two sections split and harmonize. The violin was introduced in the 16th century when the Spanish brought an instrument known as the “Rabel.” Though the violin had originally been played in church in Mexico, it became part of the creation of the mariachi genre. When Austro-Hungarian forces occupied Mexico in the 1860s, they introduced orchestral music. So, mariachi was born when combining classical and Native music. Violin played a critical role in forming the genre as we know it today.

Lastly, it is important to note that the violin is still leaving its mark on different genres. Violin can be heard in Pop, Electronic, and Indie Rock. It can be heard in many parts of the world. Genres like Indian Pop, Irish Folk, and so many others have been changed by this beautiful instrument. Its importance has spanned throughout centuries, cultures, and genres. The violin continues to evolve, and shape music for all to enjoy.

Sources

Boyen, David D. “Col Legno.” Grove Music Online, www.oxfordmusiconline.com/grovemusic/view/10.1093/gmo/9781561592630.001.0001/omo-9781561592630-e-0000006117.

“The History of the Violin.” English, 2015, www.get-tuned.com/history-of-the-violin.php.

Margolis, Sasha. “Essential Historical Recordings: Great Jazz Violinists.” Stringsmagazine.com, 3 Apr. 2020, stringsmagazine.com/essential-historical-recordings-great-jazz-violinists/.

Springer, Nicole. “The Role of the Violin in Mariachi Music.” NAfME, 10 Nov. 2009, nafme.org/the-role-of-the-violin-in-mariachi-music/.

Team, StringOvation. “History of the Violin: Facts You May Not Know.” Connolly Music Company, 12 Nov. 2019, www.connollymusic.com/stringovation/history-of-the-violin-facts-you-may-not-know.

Team, StringOvation. “Understanding The Different Roles String Instruments Play In An Orchestra.” Connolly Music Company, 24 May 2017, www.connollymusic.com/stringovation/string-instruments-different-roles-in-an-orchestra.