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Interesting Facts on Violin History: The Renaissance Period

Paintings by Gaudenzio Ferrari show that early violins had only 3 strings. According to Ferrari’s paintings, the first violins had a bulging front and back plates and f-holes with side pegs, which hold the strings. Compared to the modern instrument, the early violins had more exaggerated looks and the three strings. Although the makers of these first instruments are unknown, it is strongly believed they were made in Italy where they gained popularity and especially among street musicians and nobles of the 16 century. Here are some interesting facts on violin history.

Violins Made By Early Violin Makers Are Worth Millions

As the popularity of the violin increased, so did the makers of the instrument. The first violin is believed to have been made by the Amati family around 1500. The production of violins reached its peak in the 16th century with the most notable makers being the Stradivari family and Guarneri. The two violinmakers learned this type of artisanship from the Amati family. Their instruments are considered the best-made violins up to date and are highly sort by violinists from around the world. These instruments also cost a fortune, with “the Hammer” by Stradivari sold $3.6 million in 2006.

The Role of the Violin during the Renaissance Period

Musicians used the violin as a dance & vocal accompaniment. By the 17th century, musicians started incorporating the instrument to instrumental ensembles where it always stood out above other instruments making it the most appropriate for playing melody lines. Since the 17th century, experienced violinists have always amazed their audience with the instruments’ virtuosity.

The Violin and Its Legacy

The violin is considered more of an expressive instrument that is close to the human voice. Known violinists of all time have included this instrument in violin concertos and violin sonata repertories. The violin use was popular in the early days of dance orchestras having 2 to 3 violins while the high-class orchestras would have at least 6-7 violins.

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