vonós

Vonós is a Hungarian term used to describe the string family of musical instruments, particularly bowed string instruments, and is commonly used to refer to the string section of an ensemble or orchestra. The word derives from vonó, meaning "bow," reflecting the primary means of producing sound on these instruments. In orchestral usage, a vonós section comprises the core string players: first and second violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. More generally, vonós may denote any bowed string instrument within a group, though plucked strings such as the guitar or harp are not typically included.

The core members are the violin (hegedű), viola (brácsa), cello (cselló), and double bass (nagybőgő). Playing techniques center on the use of a bow (arco), though plucked (pizzicato) also occurs. Special bowing and timbral effects include sul ponticello (near the bridge) and sul tasto (over the fingerboard), as well as artificial harmonics.

History and role: The modern violin family emerged in the 16th–18th centuries in Europe and became central to the symphonic orchestra. The vonós section provides a wide range of timbres and extensive sustain, often carrying melodies or harmonic foundations, and it interacts with woodwinds, brass, and percussion to shape the ensemble’s texture.

Notation and tuning: vonós players read standard staff notation. The violin is tuned G–D–A–E, the viola C–G–D–A, the cello C–G–D–A, and the double bass E–A–D–G (from lowest to highest strings).