A 4-stringed instrument that is the high member of the violin family (which also includes the viola, cello and double bass). A bow of horsehair is drawn across the strings, tuned at intervals of a fifth (GDAE), to set them in vibration. Capable of great flexibility in range, tone and dynamics, it has a shallower body than the viol.

Descended from the medieval fiddle and rebec, the violin developed in Italy during the 16th century until its proportions were standardised in the 17th century. Exquisitely crafted instruments created by masters like Antonio Stradivari continue to be the most highly prized musical instruments in the world. In addition to having a rich solo repertoire, the violin is the predominant instrument of the orchestra; a symphony orchestra uses more than 30 violinists.