Overview
String instruments produce sound through vibrating strings. They may be bowed, plucked, struck, amplified, fretted, fretless, acoustic, or electronic.
This page belongs to the Instrument Guide area of the Malone Global University Music Department. Instrument pages should connect sound production, performance technique, musical role, ensemble use, history, technology, and listening practice.
On This Page
Instrument Links
Use these links to move through related instrument, performance, theory, technology, listening, and genre pages.
Sound Production
String sound depends on string vibration, instrument body, bow or plucking technique, finger placement, resonance, and amplification when used.
Common String Instruments
Common string instruments include violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and many global string instruments.
Ensemble Roles
Strings appear in orchestras, chamber music, folk traditions, jazz, blues, country, rock, pop, film music, worship, and studio recording.
Study Questions
- How does this instrument or instrument family produce sound?
- What range, tone color, technique, or performance role is most important?
- Where does this instrument appear in ensembles, genres, recordings, or traditions?
- What should students listen for when hearing this instrument?
- How does the instrument connect to history, culture, technology, or composition?