First Violins

The principal Violinist in the First Violins is known as the leader of the orchestra, and to some extent this signifies the importance of their role.  Whenever the strings sweep to the foreground in a symphony or concerto, it is almost certainly the First Violins leading the way, establishing the melody.

As a solo instrument, the Violin is one of only two instruments that can truly compete with the orchestra, and as a result dominates the solo concerto.  Its rich, bright, resonant tone is worthy of a beautiful instrument that is totally responsive to the player.  The violin is popular to the extent that the violinists themselves are almost as well known as the composers whose work they perform.   Famous modern day artists include Nigel Kennedy and Vanessa Mae.

Among the best violin concertos are works by Vivaldi (the Four Seasons), Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky, Dvorak, Brahms, Sibelius and Bruch, the most popular piece of classical music of all time.

Approximate Range	3 1/2 octaves
String Tuning (low to high)	G, D, A, E
Length	60cm