Key Differences Between Western And Indian Violin

Music is the language of the soul. The lyrics, the beat, the harmonies, and the melodies leave a deep imprint on the listener and the artist’s heart. Some instruments, when played, add depth to the music and create a magical atmosphere. There are several unique instruments that produce magical sounds, like the guitar, piano, violin, and so forth. The violin is quite popular in the West and in India. Though the West and India play the same instrument, the style and frame of reference are different. Nowadays, quite a number of people enroll in music schools in India to learn the violin.

The Uniqueness Of A Violin

The violin is known for its expressive range. This powerful string instrument is very unique and versatile as it is not only limited to classical music, but it can seamlessly blend into every genre. The violin has a melodic lead that is often used when playing in an orchestra due to its bright and audible tone. Not only that, the violin is not only melodic but also produces a high range of expressiveness, which ranges from soft and melancholic to loud and energetic. Furthermore, this powerful little instrument has some historical significance with roots in other instruments like the lira and rabab.

Key Differences Between Western and Indian Violin

According to one of the best music schools, though the instrument is the same, there are some key differences between the style and context of music between the West and India.:

• Indian Violin – The playing position of the Indian violin is typically while sitting down, with the scroll resting on the leg or foot. A lot of music schools in India mainly focus on melodic ornamentation and improvisation with Indian classical music as well. Not only that, the tuning of the Indian violin varies from that of the West as Indians emphasise microtones and specific melodic scales. Furthermore, when it comes to style, Indians like to use the violin to accompany vocalists, but it can also be played as a solo instrument, focusing on continuity and melodic flow. Indians utilise music sheets minimally and typically don’t make use of vibrato
• Western Violin –  The playing position of the violin in the West is usually while standing up, with the violin resting on the shoulder. The Westerners focus on sheet music, harmony, chords, and ensemble music, which is not typically common in India. Moreover, when it comes to style, the violin is used extensively in the Western world in all genres, especially classical. Not only that, in the West, they also use vibrato, which adds expressiveness to the sound. Furthermore, they rely on standard notation and sheet music. Music schools in India have adopted some of the techniques, but not all, to preserve their own unique musical culture.

Quite notably, though the instrument is the same, there are some key differences that can be seen from the aforementioned. The main differences are that Indians like to play while sitting, and vice versa for the West. While Indians like to focus on melodic ornamentation, Westerners like to focus on harmony and ensemble playing. If you have a knack for the violin and would like to know more about how to play the violin and all the different styles, you can get in touch with Sri Veena Vani Music School. They are the best music school in Bangalore, dedicated to teaching people how to master different instruments.