What Is an Electric Violin?

An electric violin has the same tuning as a traditional violin. However, it is designed to be played as part of a band. Whether it be rock'n'roll, country, pop, indie or jazz, the electric violin is made for the contemporary music scene where it serves as a great accompaniment to all types of musical performances.

Style

The style of the electric violin, in terms of its shape, may vary from instrument to instrument. Electric violins are designed for certain situations. Electric violins do not look like traditional violins; sometimes the body is an odd shape or the instrument is minimalist in style, meaning the frame is minimized. Colors may vary, and body styles are crafted primarily for aesthetic purposes.

Types of Sounds

The electric violin is utilized in solos, leads and accompaniments. The range of sounds available with an electric violin is diverse. The nature of the sound depends on the way the soundboard is adjusted. Resonance, vibrato, intonation, the pitch, frequency and sound modifications all play a role in the final output.

Sound and Frequency

The sounds from an electric violin can be amplified to a very loud volume. Therefore the electric violin is made to be played in front of large audiences. The strings on the electric version are designed specifically for the electric violin. They vibrate at various frequencies, and then those frequencies are transmitted as electric signals to the soundboard where they are modified. The sound is then increased by the amplifiers.

Electric Versus Traditional

The main reason for using an electric violin, in place of a traditional violin with a pick-up, is to prevent mishaps with the equipment. The pick-up attachment to a traditional violin is rather tricky, and it involves extra wires that get in the way. The pick-up could at times become detached or broken. With an electric violin, there is no need for an outside piece of equipment. The pick-up is built in to the equipment. Playing a violin into a microphone is generally not an accepted practice in the musical community. It just doesn't sound good enough. Also, electric violins are also tougher and sturdier than the wood version. The frame provides rigidity and supports the strings. It has no effect on the sound.

Control Over Sound

A musical instrument with as much power as a violin can only add excitement and passion to an already frenzied energy during a performance. The violin can also soothe with soft melodies and slow bowing. The electric violin operates by these same principles, only at a much greater volume. There are knobs on the violin that affect the sound, and it may also be plugged into a variety of pedals and sound modulators so that effects can be applied. This ability to alter the sound to create improvisational atmospheres is a heavy factor when weighing the advantages of an electric violin.