Why is a violin called a "fiddle"?

The violin has been a familiar instrument on the world music scene for hundreds of years.
Its elegant shape and haunting tone have endeared it to many.
In this blog, we explore the background behind the violin's naming as "fiddle.

◆The origins and naming of the violin
The origin of the violin can be traced back to Italy in the early 16th century.
However, before the name "violin" appeared, there were similar instruments such as the viola da braccio and the lilla da braccio.
All of these instruments were so named because they were played by the player holding them by the arm (braccio).

The name "violin" is derived from the Italian word "violino," meaning "little viola.
The reason for this name is that the violin was a slightly smaller, higher-pitched instrument than the viola.
Instrument makers of the time experimented with stringed instruments of various sizes and shapes,
Among these, the violin quickly became the instrument of choice for a particularly wide range of musical expression.
Today, the viola is often referred to as the "big violin," but historically the violin was the "little viola.


◆Summary
The origin of the name "violin" is deeply rooted in its characteristics and history.
Meaning "little viola," the name symbolizes the violin's delicate, beautiful tone and the amazing musical possibilities that can be created from its tiny body.
As its name suggests, the violin, which has been loved for centuries, is the queen of the classical music world.