Stringed Instruments

Violin

Violins are the smallest therefore the highest pitched string instrument . Like the other instruments of the string family, they have four strings usually played using a bow and occasionally plucked with the fingers.   They can be a versatile instruments with a wonderful expressive sound and are capable of producing all sorts of tone colours and effects. They are played in small ensembles and are extensively used in bigger numbers divided into two teams or sections of the Symphony Orchestra.

There is a variance in the size of the violin referred to as 1/4 size, 1/2 size, 3/4 size and full size. In Durham Music Service we have highly qualified staff who insure that young players are provided with the correct size to suit them.

Violins are also very widely used as folk instruments and most violinists will learn to play quite a lot of folk music as it makes very good teaching material. Violins are also occasionally featured in jazz and can be seen with other members of the string family, providing backing for pop and rock songs. Durham Music Service also provides Electric Violins which can be amplified and used with signal effects. They can also be used with earphones for quiet practise.

Viola

The Viola although identical in shape to the Violin is larger in size. Its four strings are tuned differently making it lower in pitch than the violin. It too is used in small ensembles and in larger numbers as part of the Symphony Orchestra adding a rich tone to the strings section. Like the Violin, it is played tucked under the chin and the sound is produced with a bow or plucked with the fingers.

Cello

The Cello or "Violoncello" is one of the Lower String instruments. It produces the sound in the same way as the Violin and Viola. However, because of its size it has to be played in a seated position between the legs propped on a spike connecting it to the floor. It has four strings arranged the same as the viola but sounding a whole octave lower. It has a huge range of notes and produces a very rich mellow tone. Like other string instruments it can be very expressive and is the choice for many soloists. As well as being used in small ensembles, it too has a team or section in the Orchestra.

Double Bass

The largest member of the string family is the Double Bass or String Bass. The Double Bass has four strings, although there are instruments that have an extra fifth string to play some of the very lowest notes possible! Double Basses make up the lowest pitched section of the orchestra and are usually played in a standing position or using a high stool. They are played with a bow also but is noted for the "pizzicato" or plucked sound. This can be more commonly heard to good effect  in swing and big band music. The Double Bass is a very versitile instrument and used to complement the bass section of wind bands and even featured in rock and roll.

The Double Bass often requires amplification for jazz and big bands etc. and sometimes a Bass Guitar is preferred. Often you will find that Double Bass Players also become proficient on Bass Guitar. An alternative to this is the Electric Double Bass which is also provided and taught by Durham Music Service.