hardingur

The hardingur is a traditional Norwegian musical instrument, a type of fiddle that is closely related to the standard violin. It is most commonly found in the western parts of Norway and is characterized by its unique construction and playing technique. The hardingur typically features a sympathetic string system, where additional strings run underneath the fingerboard and are not directly played by the bow. These strings vibrate sympathetically with the played strings, creating a rich, resonant, and often ethereal sound.

The instrument's body is often ornately carved and decorated with traditional Norwegian folk art motifs. The tuning of a hardingur can vary greatly depending on the region and the specific piece of music being played, but common tunings include a mix of open strings and relative pitches that facilitate the characteristic drone effects. Playing the hardingur involves a distinct bowing technique that can be quite different from classical violin playing, often incorporating ornamentation, slides, and percussive elements. The hardingur is central to Norwegian folk music, particularly in genres like slåtter (traditional dance tunes) and ballades. Its distinctive sound has made it an iconic symbol of Norwegian cultural heritage.