Violins have long been revered for their beautiful sound and versatility.  But did you know that there are many different types of violins that stretch beyond the modern classical version? In this article, we’ll explore the world of violins, from electric to Baroque. We’ll also delve into fiddle playing – a style that encompasses all the different types of violin.

Better still, we’ll provide some recommendations to help you find the right style for you, whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious enthusiast.

2. Electric Violins

The electric violin is a modern variation of the traditional violin, and it’s become increasingly popular over recent years. Developed in the 20th Century as a way to expand the possibilities of contemporary music, this innovative instrument is equipped with an electronic output that allows the sound to be amplified.

Electric violins have a sleek and ergonomic design. They’re often made from lightweight materials such as carbon fibre or synthetic composites, which make them both easy to carry – perfect for dynamic performances – and durable. Electric violins also feature additional controls for adjusting volume and tone, as well as the ability to connect to effects pedals and amplifiers.

This is an extremely versatile instrument. Not only can it handle the vast array of genres suited to the classic violin, but it is also used in rock, jazz, and electronic music by orchestras/bands and solo performers, where its amplified sound really comes in handy.

One of the most notable characteristics of this type of violin is the wide range of tones that can be tailored to the player’s preferences. When the electric violin is amplified, you can control and experiment with the sound more than you can with an acoustic, yet it still has that fundamental warmth and richness. The ability to manipulate the sound through effects pedals offers even more tonal options.

Our recommendation: 5 String Electric Violin by Gear4music

The Electric Violin by Gear4music boasts a distinctive bodyless design, meaning it has an outline that resembles the shape and balance of its acoustic counterpart. It’s made from high-quality maple and paulownia and is enhanced with ebonised birch fittings.

A custom-designed under-bridge pickup then delivers vibrant tones – with an adjustable tone control there for you to manipulate your sound – and a headphone output allows for silent practice. The violin comes complete with a bow, rosin, and a sturdy hard foam case. It’s also available with five strings, which we’ll move on to next…

3. Five-string violin

Although not strictly a type of violin, the five-string violin is a variant of the traditional violin that many people look for. It’s available in acoustics, electrics, semi-acoustics, and more.

The fifth string is tuned below the usual range, allowing you to go beyond the limits of the typical four strings. Bobby Hicks first showcased the five-string violin in a 1963 performance, and the concept of adding an extra string to the violin has been embraced by violin makers over the years.

In terms of construction, a five-string violin typically follows the same shape and materials as a standard violin. It features four main strings tuned to G, D, A, and E, along with an additional low string tuned to a low B.

The added low string enhances the instrument’s depth and resonance, and so musicians utilise this in classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary styles, where the extended range allows for more expressive and dynamic performances. Its ability to cover both violin and viola ranges makes it particularly useful for those who require the versatility of playing both instruments.

Our recommendation: Glasser Carbon Composite Acoustic Violin Outfit, 5 String

The Glasser Carbon Composite Acoustic Violin Outfit, 5 String is crafted from a carbon composite material that ensures durability and resilience to changing environments – this is great for professional violinists who need an instrument that can handle going from gig to gig. It offers a rich and resonant tone, with the added depth of the fifth string.

This instrument provides precise tuning and exceptional playability, equipped with Larsen Aurora and Original strings, Planetary tuning pegs, and a carbon composite tailpiece with fine tuners. The outfit also includes a Glasser Fibreglass Bow, rosin, polishing cloth, and a BAM case, catering to the needs of professional musicians and those who frequently perform outdoors or travel.

4. Semi-acoustic violin

As its name suggests, a semi-acoustic violin is a unique instrument that combines elements of both an acoustic and electric violin. It offers the versatility to be played acoustically, like a traditional violin, or connected to amplification for a louder and more dynamic sound.

The semi-acoustic violin features a hollow body made of wood, allowing it to resonate and produce sound acoustically. Additionally, it incorporates built-in pickups, which capture the sound and enable amplification.

Just like the classic and electric violin, the semi-acoustic spans multiple genres, from jazz to rock. In terms of tone, it offers a blend of an acoustic’s rich and resonant tones with the added ability to control and shape the sound using amplification.

Our recommendation: Stentor Harlequin Electric Violin Outfit

With its Artec Piezo transducer and convenient tone and volume control, the Stentor Harlequin Electric Violin Outfit, Full Size allows for seamless connection to an amplifier or PA system and its sound can be sculpted to your preferences. It shines acoustically too, courtesy of a solid carved spruce top and solid maple back and sides.

The violin also features integral adjusters for precise fine-tuning. Included with the violin is a sturdy hard case and a durable P&H fibreglass bow, making it a convenient package for all ability levels.

5. Baroque violin

A Baroque violin is set up in the style of the Baroque period of music, which lasted from approximately 1600 to 1750. It has an extensive history, having been invented in Italy during the early 16th Century by Andrea Amati. The construction differs slightly from modern violins in its shape and materials, showcasing a shorter neck, flatter bridge, and gut strings rather than steel.

Baroque violins are primarily used in the style of music that is its namesake, which includes compositions by famous composers such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi. These types of violins produce a warm and mellow tone, perfectly suited for the expressive and intricate melodies of this era.

Our recommendation: Heritage Academy Baroque Style Violin

The Heritage Academy Baroque Style Violin is a handcrafted instrument with a maple and spruce body, designed to recreate the rich tones of the baroque period. Its construction is based on the Amati model, capturing the essence of the era in its style and resonant, sharply responsive sound.

Whether you’re performing baroque compositions or simply appreciating the beauty of this historic instrument, the Heritage Academy Baroque Style Violin offers exceptional craftsmanship and a captivating tone.

6. Hardanger Violin

A Hardanger violin, also known as a hardingfele, is a traditional stringed instrument from Norway that is often used for fiddle-style playing. It’s considered the national instrument of Norway and dates back to the 17th Century.

One of the most distinctive features of the Hardanger violin is its four or five sympathetic strings that run beneath the fingerboard, creating a haunting tone. It’s commonly played in traditional Norwegian folk music, as well as in contemporary genres where its unique sound adds depth and character to the music.