The Long History Of The Glorious Violin

By Jim Samposzi

The violin, one of the category of stringed type instruments, has much time in the history of the world. Although there is nobody that knows exactly, many believe the violin to have been invented in the late 700's in Asia. But, this is highly debated and nobody knows for sure. Either way, the first of the type you notice these days was not seen until the 15th century. Before this time, there were many like it but none that looked like the violin today. Some of these older models 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

By taking a look at the list above, it is seems as thought the Italians were the pioneers of 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, this nation took the lead on a vast cornucopia of violin-type, stringed instruments. Also, it is important to note that these violins were first built with only three strings and were then built with for in the late fifteen hundreds.

After time, makers from Germany, Austria, Holland, England, Norway, and Spain jumped in the mix and by the sixteen hundreds, many European countries began to craft violins. The construction of this gorgeous music maker declined in the eighteenth century as nobody was able to expand upon the design. Also, the Baroque era, a time that violins were most popular in, died. So, many did not demand this sound any longer. Many tests and experiments were performed to enhance the violin but keep the same shape and sound quality. There were many experiments that did not fit the bill and violin sales plummeted in the 19th century.

It was not until the first quarter of the 20th century 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.

Whatever its origins, the violin is the perfect addition to many bands, orchestras, and chamber groups. The harmony generated from this instrument is one in a million. Today, the violin is included in pop and rock even with a few tunes. The violin is constantly tinkered with by manufacturers to create the world's finest violin! - 18423

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.