The violin, a music maker of the string group, has much time in the history of this world. Although the historians are not exactly sure of its origins, many believe the violin to have been introduced towards the late eighth century in Asia. But, the exact origin is highly debated and nothing is confirmed 100%. Either way, the first of the type you notice these days was not developed until the fourteen hundreds. Before this time, there were many like it but none that looked like the violin today. Some of the older kinds 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 leading up to today’s violin. However, the first iteration of the word Violin was spoke in England in late 1500’s. 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, Italy took the lead on this style of instruments. Also, it is noteworthy to mention that these violins used to have only three strings and finally began being built with 4 but not until the later part of the 16th century.
After time, makers from Germany, Austria, Holland, England, Norway, and Spain jumped in the mix and by the 1600’s, many European nations were involved in violin making. The construction of violins 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 need these sounds anymore. Many tests and tinkering took place to enhance the design while keeping the traditional form and sound quality. There were a lot of failing and violin sales hit a lull towards the mid 1800’s.
It was not until the nineteen thirties 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.
No matter the origin, the violin is a most beautiful addition to concerts, orchestras, and chamber groups. The sound that comes from this instrument is one in a million. Today, it is included in popular music and rock even with some songs. The violin is always experimented on by manufacturers to come out with an even better violin!