The body of a violin consists of a hollow wooden case with a curved soundboard, or belly, and a flat wooden back, often made of maple. The soundboard's edges are raised above the back, creating a slight angle that slopes away from the fingerboard. The curve of the soundboard and back determines the violin's acoustic qualities, such as its range and depth of sound.
2. Neck
The neck of a violin connects to the body at an angle. It consists of a wooden shaft that supports the fingerboard and pegs. The fingerboard is made of a dark, dense wood, typically ebony, and features raised wooden ridges, or frets, that serve as guides for the violinist's fingers.
3. Scroll
At the end of the neck, just below the pegs, is the violin's scroll. This ornate, decorative piece is crafted from the same wood as the body or neck and often features a carved head, which may depict a human or animal.
4. Strings
A violin has four strings, each tuned at specific intervals. Traditionally, the strings were made of gut, but modern strings may be made of synthetic materials or even metal. The strings are attached to the bottom of the body with a tailpiece, which can be made from wood or a composite material.
5. Bridge
The bridge sits directly above the soundboard and supports the strings. It is made from a piece of high-density hardwood and is delicately curved to evenly distribute the tension from the strings across the soundboard.
6. Pegs
The violin's four pegs are inserted into holes in the scroll. They are used to adjust the tension of the strings and tune the violin. Each peg is turned carefully to increase or decrease the string's tension and align it with the desired note.
7. Chin Rest
To accommodate the violinist's chin while playing, a chin rest is attached to the body of the violin. It can be made from ebony, wood, or synthetic material and is adjustable for comfort.
8. Endpin
The violin's endpin is a metal rod that extends vertically from the bottom of the body. It can be retracted or extended to adjust the violin's overall height. When in playing position, the endpin sits on the floor, providing support and helping to balance the violin.
9. Bow
Although not technically part of the violin itself, the bow is an essential component of playing the instrument. It consists of a wooden shaft with a curve at one end and horsehair stretched tightly between the two ends. The violinist draws the bow across the strings to produce sound.