The Long History Of The Glorious Violin

By Jim Samposzi

The violin, an instrument of the stringed family of instruments, has deep roots in the history of the world. Although the historians are not exactly sure of its origins, many believe it to have been created as far back as the late 700's in Asia. But, it is highly debated and nobody knows for sure. Either way, the first of the type you notice these days was not developed until the 15th century. Before this time, there were many like it but none that looked like the violin today. Some of the more well-known 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. However, the first iteration of the word Violin happened in England in the fifteen hundreds. The Italians though took it further by building the closest form of today's violin. By this time, this nation took the lead on building string instruments that closely resembled the violin. Also, it is noteworthy to mention that these violins used to have only three strings and did not become four-stringed instruments until the late 1500's.

After time, violin manufacturers from Germany, Austria, Holland, England, Norway, and Spain followed suit to perfect the violin and by the 1600's, many European manufacturers got involved in the craft. The construction of violins declined in the 18th century as nobody was able to expand upon the design. Furthermore, 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 trials were done to enhance the design while keeping the traditional form and sound quality. There were a lot of failing and violin sales plummeted in the 19th century.

It did not come 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.

Whenever the birth, the violin is a most beautiful addition to concerts, orchestras, and chamber groups. The harmony generated from this instrument is like no other. Today, it is included in popular music and rock even with a few tunes. The violin is constantly tinkered with by manufacturers to create the world's finest violin! - 18758

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.