geige

Geige, commonly called violin in German, is a bowed string instrument of the violin family. It is held against the left shoulder and under the chin, and played with a bow drawn across the strings or plucked (pizzicato). The instrument has four strings, typically tuned in perfect fifths to G3, D4, A4, and E5. Violins come in sizes from 1/16 to 4/4, with 4/4 selected for most adults.

Construction: The instrument's body is carved from spruce top and maple back and sides, with a maple neck and scroll. The top carries f-shaped sound holes; the back is arched. A bridge transmits string vibrations to the top; a tailpiece anchors the strings. Most modern violins use metal- or synthetic-core strings and a metal or composite tailpiece; historically gut strings were common. Typical full-size violins measure about 35 cm in body length and weigh around 400–460 g.

History: The violin originated in 16th-century northern Italy, evolving from earlier bowed instruments. Prominent makers such as Andrea Amati, Antonio Stradivari, and Giuseppe Guarneri contributed to its mature form in the 17th and 18th centuries. The violin became central to Western classical music and is also widely used in folk, chamber, and contemporary genres.

Playing and repertoire: The violin is typically played with a horsehair bow; players use left-hand fingering to produce pitches and apply vibrato for expression. Techniques include bowing, pizzicato, spiccato, and various articulations. It forms the core of orchestral string sections, chamber ensembles, and a vast solo repertoire, including concertos and sonatas, as well as traditional and modern genres worldwide.