tenor violin

musical instrument

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "tenor violin" can refer to two distinct instruments. Historically, it described a stringed instrument from the 16th to 18th centuries that was larger than a viola but smaller than a cello, tuned F–c–g–d′. More broadly, "tenor violin" can also be used synonymously with "viola".1

The violin itself is the smallest and highest-pitched member of the violin family, which includes the viola, cello, and double bass. It typically has four strings tuned in perfect fifths (G–D–A–E) and is played with a bow or by plucking. The violin is renowned for its expressive capabilities and is a prominent instrument in classical music, as well as folk, jazz, and other genres.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

violin
Historical developments
The tenor violin, known from the 16th century through the 18th century, was midway in size between the viola and cello. It was tuned F–c–g–d′. “Tenor violin” also occasionally referred to the viola.
Read More
The tenor violin, known from the 16th century through the 18th century, was midway in size between the viola and cello. It was tuned F–c–g–d′. “Tenor violin” also occasionally referred to the viola.
Read More