The violin, a music maker of the string group, has much time in the history of our world. Although nobody can say for sure, many believe it to have been invented in the late 700’s in Asia. But, the exact origin is highly debated and nobody knows for sure. Either way, the first of the type you notice these days was not created until the 15th century. Before this time, many lookalikes existed but none like today’s violin. 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 seems as thought the Italians were the pioneers of violin-type instruments before the today’s model of the violin. But, the first speaking of the word Violin was spoke in England in late 1500’s. The Italians though are known for building the closest instrument to the modern day violin. By this time, Italy took the lead on this style of instruments. Also, it is vital to point out that these violins started with three strings and did not become four-stringed instruments until the late 1500’s.

After time, builders from Germany, Austria, Holland, England, Norway, and Spain got involved and by the sixteen hundreds, many European nations were involved in violin making. The construction of these wonderful instruments declined in the 1700’s as they could not make it better than it was. In addition, 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 tinkering took place to enhance the design while keeping the same shape 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.

No matter the origin, the violin is a most beautiful addition to many bands, 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 genres sometimes with certain melodies. The violin is regularly tested by manufacturers to perfect this gorgeous stringed music maker!

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