Electric violins have been around since the 1930s. But it seems like they're just starting to make a splash in the music industry. And why has it taken so long you ask? Especially compared to electric guitars that have also been around since the 1930s? Yet we see electric guitars in almost every genre and band out there.
That's because the vast majority of violinists are classically trained. They are taught to play Vivaldi the way it "should" be played, as in the way Vivaldi would've played it himself 300 years ago. Violinists also join orchestras where they play the same music in the same style as every other violinist in the orchestra.
Now there's absolutely nothing wrong with that! In fact, learning the violin does require a lot of discipline and practice. And one of the best ways to become a proficient violinist is through classical training. However, there's not a lot of room for creativity compared to other genres.
Times are changing though! Especially with the music industry. Now more than ever, it's easier to experiment, get creative, and share your music with listeners.
And how are these electric violinists breaking the classical barriers of what a violinist "should" do? Through Youtube! In this article, we've compiled a list of some of the top electric violin Youtube videos, and how these musicians are exploring new possibilities for violinists around the world.