Krsna Kirtana Songs est.
2001 www.kksongs.org
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Violin
The violin is known worldwide with its varied use.
While the violin is non-Indian in origin, the technique is undoubtedly a
trademark of South Indian music. The violin is the first
choice of vocal accompaniment as it contains constant vocal fluidity. The
violin has the ability to mimic the vocal ornaments and can even replicate
microtonal detail. Since the harmonium lacks the ability to do either, it is
rejected altogether in the South Indian system. The tuning system is based on
tuning to the fifth and tonic of the main performance. In addition, the posture
of the violin is altogether different. One placed the violin’s base between the
chin and shoulder and keep the head of the violin
between the feet. It is considered the most stable position of the violin.
North Indian music uses the violin; however, it is
rarely heard in classical music. The violin’s posture is different from both
Western and South Indian technique. The violin is not used that frequently in
classical settings, since sarangi reigns supreme in
the bowed family of stringed instruments.
Although the technique, posture, and tuning differs
from the Western technique, the construction of the violin is still the same.