The infamous violin has been around for centuries. In the Renaissance period, which dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, this string instrument was highly valued by courts in England and France. Moreover, it was mostly associated with dance and classical music exclusively performed by skilled professionals. Though the evidence of which can be seen in past paintings and recordings from this era, violins were not well-known instruments amongst the masses and were not as widespread in comparison to their counterparts like the viols and recorders. In addition, violins were also frequently paired with the lute. As time passed, the violin underwent some physical changes and the prominence of which in various genres diversified. As a result of experimentation during the 1950s-1960s with classical instruments, violins were incorporated in emerging music genres like rock and thus the emergence of the rock violin movement!
In light of more modern genres of music like art rock, electric versions of the violin had been created. Even the traditional wooden versions were used on stage! Such was eventually incorporated into live performances of prominent artists like Velvet Underground, Sugar Cane Harris, Mark Knopfler, and King Crimson. Consequently, this led to the popularization of electric violins which were increasingly present in their instrument line-ups. Furthermore, these were often used during solo acts and interludes. Some famous rock songs that incorporated the use of violins include:
- “Sunday Bloody Sunday” by U2
- “Hurricane” by Bob Dylan
- “Gumbo Variations” by Frank Zappra and Sugarcane Harris, and;
- “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
In the modern day, the role and usage of violins are no longer exclusive to classical, folk, jazz, and rock/alternative music. This wonderful string instrument has branched out into multiple styles like pop, country, celtic, fiddle, blue grass, and indie. On social media, the prominence of freestyle violinists has also been evident such as in platforms like YouTube and TikTok!
As genres and the world of music evolves, the violin grows with these movements as well. From what was once a stubby wooden instrument that was only popular to a few, the violin has proven to be a versatile instrument contributing to beautiful melodies across multiple genres of music! With that, the violin continues to shine in different music avenues and captures more audiences. We are sure that the violin community will not cease to flourish in the centuries to come!