Vielle

Definition

The vielle is a medieval string instrument that resembles a violin and was commonly used in Europe from the 11th to the 16th centuries. It features a hollow body and is typically played with a bow, producing a warm, resonant sound that was integral to both secular and sacred music of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The vielle has several variations, including the 'hardingfele' from Norway and the 'rebec,' each having unique characteristics but sharing common ancestry.
2. Unlike modern violins, the vielle usually has a flatter bridge which allows for playing multiple strings simultaneously, making it suitable for chordal accompaniment.
3. The vielle was often used in courtly music as well as in folk traditions, highlighting its versatility across different social settings.
4. It played an important role in early music notation and was featured in many surviving manuscripts from the medieval period, showcasing its popularity.
5. As musical styles evolved into the Renaissance, the vielle gradually fell out of favor in favor of instruments like the violin and viola, which had more refined designs.

Review Questions

• How did the design and construction of the vielle influence its use in medieval music?
  • The design of the vielle, with its hollow body and flatter bridge, allowed for a warm sound that could support both melody and harmony. Its ability to play multiple strings simultaneously made it an ideal instrument for chordal accompaniment, which was essential in both secular and sacred music. This adaptability contributed significantly to its popularity among musicians during the medieval period.
• Discuss the role of the vielle in both courtly and folk music traditions during its prevalence in medieval Europe.
  • The vielle served as a bridge between different musical worlds during medieval times. In courtly settings, it was used to accompany dances and formal music ensembles, showcasing its capability for both melodic line and harmonic support. In contrast, in folk traditions, it contributed to communal music-making and celebrations, illustrating how versatile and integral this instrument was across various social contexts.
• Evaluate the impact of evolving musical styles on the decline of the vielle's popularity by the Renaissance period.
  • As musical styles transitioned into the Renaissance, there was a growing preference for instruments that offered greater dynamic range and expressiveness. The violin and viola emerged as more refined alternatives to the vielle due to their design improvements, such as higher arches and more sophisticated sound production techniques. This shift not only marked a decline in the use of the vielle but also reflected broader changes in musical aesthetics that emphasized individual expressiveness over collective harmony.

Related terms

Fiddle: A term often used interchangeably with violin, particularly in folk music contexts; it can refer to a variety of similar bowed string instruments.

Renaissance: A period of cultural rebirth in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, characterized by advancements in art, literature, and music, including the evolution of instruments like the vielle.

Lute: A plucked string instrument popular during the medieval and Renaissance periods, often used alongside the vielle in musical ensembles.