WHAT IS A VIOLIN? A violin is a bowed string instrument with a truly beautiful sound. As its tone is not one of the strongest, there are so many violins in an orchestra to ensure that it is properly heard and not drowned out by the wind instruments. The violin has long been an important part of the classical tradition, especially in Europe.BOW The violin has four strings and is played with the bow. The bow is composed of a wooden stick with a ribbon of horsehair strung taut from end to end. In the past, a violin bow looked more like an archer's bow - indeed, this instrument of combat was an important inspiration in its creation. Professionals refer to movements of the bow across the strings as strokes.A LITTLE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE BOW The first bows originated in ancient times in India and Persia. The bow appeared in north Africa and Spain around the 6th century. From the 17th century or thereabouts, the bow became straighter as it became progressively more like the bow of today. Excerpted from The Stories of Musical Instruments by St#283 Sekaninova All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.