What are the different types of Violin ?
The differences in Violin do not exist majorly because of the time period or the size. Rather, the differences are more individualistic in nature. Famous Violinists may get their instruments customized as well.
For instance, variations in makers or the country of origin, the designer of the violin etc. are some major factors that determine how a violin is actually going to look. Certain types of Violins are discussed below.
- By Size – Usually, violins employed for professional purposes or for artistic performances have a similar size. The sizes mostly vary during the period of learning. For instance, there are fractional violins that are used for children. The smallest could be 1/16th of an actual violin. These sizes begin to increase as the child grows. Generally, the adequate size of a violin is measured by testing it with a child, whether s/he is comfortable and can manage it without dropping.
- Baroque Violin – Considered the forefather of the modern violin or the classic violin, this kind of violin was made during the 16 -17th centuries. The baroque violin featured a shallower angle on the neck. String tension was lower on these violins. The range of these instruments was lower as well.
- The Acoustic Violin – Also known as the modern violin, this instrument was developed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This development is credited to increase in string tension and increased range or sound projection of the violin. The new violin now features a more slender neck and has higher string tension. They are also made of different types of wood and have more comfortable fittings. The sound produced has improved considerably.
- Semi – Electric Violin – Produces sound acoustically so that the sounds can be electronically amplified. Pickups used in these violins can actually be added to your existing classical violin.
- Electric Violin – These are the violins that produce sound electronically. They have no sound-box or f-holes for producing the sounds. However, a lot of them still feature traditional designs to retain the original appeal. The sounds can be distorted or diversified based on one’s requirements.
- 5 Stringed – This is the violin that can either be acoustic or electric. It has a C string below the G string. This kind of violin can be used to adapt to different musical styles as it has the range of both the violin and viola in a single instrument. This type of violin is used often in country music as the sounds can be filled with lower notes. The decreased angle between strings makes it easier to perform as well.