Violin Definition
The violin is a bowed sting instrument and has four strings, which are generally tuned in perfect fifths. It is the smallest member of the violin family (which also includes the viola and cello) and has the highest pitch of this group of instruments. The strings are tuned to the notes G, D, A and E. Violins are generally made of wood and are strung with gut, steel or nylon/steel composites. The top is usually made of spruce, with maple ribs and back.
The modern day violin evolved from a variety of bowed instruments which were introduced to Europe from the Middle East and the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire). The first violins were created in the mid 1500’s and immediately became popular. King Charles IX ordered several instruments to be constructed by Andrea Amati. One of these instruments still exists today and is the oldest surviving violin. The violin acquired most of its current characteristics in 16th century Italy. Some of the most prized violins were made by the Stradivari, Guarneri, Gasparao de Salo and Amati families. At an auction in 2006, a Stradivari violin was sold for $3.5 million.
Children are usually able to start violin lessons from the age of 5, although the learning might be a bit slower than if they were a year or two older. Apart from full-size violins, there are 3/4, 1/2, 1/4 and even smaller sizes available. The Suzuki program helped develop some of the extremely smaller sizes, for students as young as 3.
