We know relatively little about those string instruments that our forefathers referred to as violins prior to the 17th century. The Hungarian fiddle had a long, rectangular body and neck fashioned from a single piece of wood. Over the past century and a half, the design of 'folk' violins has come to closely resemble those played in the modern symphony orchestra. At most, the receive minor 'repairs' and modifications. One instrument that differs from the standard violin is the kontra used as an accompaniment in Central Transylvania and Kalotaszeg. Here, only the first three strings are used with a modified tuning. In order to ensure that the player always plays three-string chords by bowing all the strings at the same time and with the same force, the strings are positioned at the same height along a flat bridge. The violin requires more intense practice, preparation and natural talent than any other folk instrument. As a result, it is primarily an instrument of professional or semi-professional musicians, often of Roma ethnicity.

Age: 8-12 year
Presented by: Müpa Budapest