The Physics of the Violin

Musical instruments are divided into four primary families, determined by the manner of their construction and the way in which they are played. These four groups are named Stringed Instruments, Keyboard Instruments, Wind Instruments, and Instruments of Percussion. The Stringed Instruments can once again be broken down into those in which the strings are plucked, for example the harp or guitar, and those in which the strings are played with a bow, such as the …

…days, there isn’t anything scientists knows about a violin that a skilled violinmaker doesn’t already know. The making of a violin is a craft that requires a master’s understanding of acoustics and attention to detail. Everything on a violin has a purpose and is primarily for the projecting of sound to the listener. The wood, bridge, and the bow are a few key elements in the most sophisticated instrument known to mankind.