Electric Violin: Not the New Electric Guitar

Most notably publicized through Yellowcards Sean Mackin, the electric violin combines the classic sound of strumming strings with the power of rocking acoustics. The instrument is not unheard of, but it remains to be seen whether it will achieve as much mainstream acceptance as the electric guitar. Public reaction to the electric violin is varied. Some receive it with enthusiasm and fascination; others see it as an unnecessary gimmick.

Both viewpoints have their merits. On one hand, it makes sense to celebrate the fusion of different musical disciplines. Musical genres shouldnt have to be so strictly segregated. On the other hand, the potential crossover of the classical violin to classic rock can open the door to any old instrument undergoing electrical engineering just for the novelty of it rather than aesthetic interest. Some might fear the possibility of these electronic instruments replacing their respective authentic ones.

As of now, skeptics have little reason to worry. The electric violin is rarely used in classical performance and mainly wanders about the realm of pop rock and other more mainstream genres of music. It may end up traveling the way of the guitar, in that classical and electric guitars are viewed as distinct instruments used for different purposes. Granted, electric guitars have a very different sound whereas an electric violin tends to sound m
ore similar to the original. Perhaps the electric violin, like the electric acoustic guitar, will fall somewhere along the line between the two domains. In any case, currently the electric violin hardly appears poised to establish itself as much as the electric guitar has, which is an interesting prospect to ponder.

It may simply be a matter of culture and time. Electric guitars conjure up the notion of rock and roll while violins are automatically associated with classical music. Electric violins are just thatelectric violins. Electric guitars have had a lot more publicity, leading to more widespread exposure and acceptance. Its entirely possible that after a decade or two, the idea of the violin as a rock instrument will be nothing absurd or out of the ordinary.

The public will inevitably dissent over whether this is something to be anticipated or feared. Diversity is to be encouraged, one side will say; mediocrity is not, the other side will counter. Should the violin be reduced to yet another instrument converted into modern fare purely out of base, even morbid enjoyment? Whether the electric violin will prove to be a creative advancement or just another technological stunt remains to be seen.