What are the characteristics of strings instruments?

Strings instruments are classical instruments. Instruments such as cellos, violins and guitars have tremendously influenced the European music styles in the last centuries. However, types and styles of instruments and strings equipment have changed. Today, the violin, the contrabass, the cello and the violin cello are frequently used by solo artists and orchestras. In earlier times, a different type of string instrument was popular.

One of these special instruments is the rebec, which is today only rarely used. The instrument was commonly used during the Middle Ages. Primarily jugglers and players played the instrument during processions and festivals. The rebec usually has three strings. Another instrument, today also only seldom used, is the fiddle. The mediaeval minnesinger played it. The fiddle has developed to today’s modern violin. As a third example for old instruments, we want to mention here the baryton. It is a bass viol in form of a violoncello. Especially baroque musicians and artists in early classical music performed it. Later on, the cello replaced it. Bach wrote cello compositions for musicians of his generation which are still very popular.

Modern strings instruments are based on the same principle: For playing a violin, the musician needs a violin bow and a sounding body. Mostly, the fiddle stick is stringed with horse hair. The hair is covered with the chemical product colophony. This creates more resistance for the bow. When the stick moves across the strings, a vibration is created which then creates the sound. Depending on the kind of movement (quickly or slowly, powerfully or softly) different sound timbres are created. When the player puts his or her finger on the string, the length of the sounds can be influenced, but also the speed in which the string vibrates and the tone pitch.

Any instrument – from mandolins to violas to the haydn bariton and harps – is a masterpiece in itself. Depending on who manufactures an instrument, it may become a life time investment for a passionate music lover. There are still many small crafts businesses with specialised master craftsmen who individually manufacture strings instruments and export worldwide. Mass produced strings instruments, parts and accessories, such as guitar strings, are mostly available in a lower price range. Depending on the application of the instrument – for home use, for children, for playing in an orchestra or as a professional solo artist – there are many websites, wholesalers and retailers who inform customers on the right choice.