Viulu

Viulu is the Finnish word for the violin, a bowed string instrument widely used in classical, folk and popular music. The modern violin typically has four strings tuned in perfect fifths (G3, D4, A4, E5) and is played with a horsehair bow, though plucked (pizzicato) and extended techniques are also common. Its sound is produced by the vibration of strings transmitted through the bridge to a hollow wooden body, usually built from a spruce top and maple back and sides, with an ebony fingerboard and fittings.

The instrument emerged in 16th-century northern Italy from earlier bowed instruments such as the viol and lira da braccio, and was refined by luthiers like Stradivari and Guarneri. Historically strings were gut; modern strings are often steel or synthetic core. Variants include baroque-period violins with different setup, fractional sizes for children, and electric violins that use pickups for amplification.

In performance the violin serves as a solo instrument, part of chamber ensembles, and as a principal voice in orchestras. It is central to many national folk traditions, including Finnish folk music where it appears alongside accordion and other instruments. Common techniques include arco (bowing), pizzicato, vibrato, harmonics and double stops; advanced repertoire explores varied bowing articulations and contemporary extended methods.

Violin making (lutherie) and performance remain active crafts and arts, with continuing interest in historical instruments, modern innovation and pedagogical methods for teaching beginners to professionals.