Is it better to be first violin or second violin?

The simplest answer is to say that usually the second violins play a supportive role harmonically and rhythmically to the first violins which often play the melody and the highest line of the string section. All first violinists appreciate the value and hard work of the second violins.

Is being a second violin bad?

‘You have to be able to rise to the level of the first violin and at times you must play under the others – more so than the viola and the cello, because there’s another violin in the group. The second violin can be disastrous for the tuning, because so many of the harmonies are determined by his voice in the quartet.

Is the concertmaster the second violinist?

In an orchestra, the concertmaster is the leader of the first violin section. There is another violin section, the second violins, led by the principal second violin. The concertmaster leads the orchestra in tuning before concerts and rehearsals, and other technical aspects of orchestra management.

Where do the first and second violins sit?

In a typical stage set-up, the first and second violins, violas and cellos are seated by twos, a pair of performers sharing a stand being called a “desk”, Each principal (or section leader) is usually on the “outside” of the first desk, that is, closest to the audience.

Why is first chair violin so important?

The first chair violinist of an orchestra—known as the concertmaster—is a vital musical leader with widely ranging responsibilities, from tuning the orchestra to working closely with the conductor.

What does second violin mean?

second violins. DEFINITIONS1. a musician who plays the violin in an orchestra and belongs to the group of violinists that is less important than the first violins.

What is 1st violin?

(music) The lead or primary violin role in an orchestra or other ensemble, or in a musical composition, that typically contains the melody and is often more technically demanding than the second violin role. The first violin role is played by a first violinist, typically the best violinist in the orchestra.

Why is first violin important?

The first violinist requires excellent musicianship, as well as the ability to carry the family of instruments in an orchestra. One could say the first violinist sets the tone for the entire orchestra, making the position a coveted one for professional musicians.

Where does 2nd chair violin sit?

Is second chair violin good?

Second chair means that you’re still very good at your instrument. You don’t have the same leadership responsibility as first chair. Sure you might be called upon when they are sick once or twice a year. Instead, you have to follow first chair’s lead, even if you don’t fully agree.

Why is first violin so important?

What is it like to be a second violinist?

They also have to play syncopated and other very difficult rhythms underneath the soaring melodies of the first violins. Often the second violins have to come out of the musical texture and play the melody themselves or play in unison with the first violins. All first violinists appreciate the value and hard work of the second violins.

What is the difference between the first and second violins of orchestra?

“It can be difficult for the audience to completely understand the difference between the first and second violins of the orchestra. The simplest answer is to say that usually the second violins play a supportive role harmonically and rhythmically to the first violins which often play the melody and the highest line of the string section.

Why is the first violin part considered the hardest?

That said, the first violin part is often considered “harder” because typically it shifts to higher positions and can have more virtuosic stuff in there.

Is it difficult to play principal 2nd in orchestra?

However, I’ve often enjoyed playing principal 2nd in orchestra: “better to rule in Hell than serve in Heaven”, as Milton’s Mephistopheles would have it. As for difficulty, there are some notable exceptions to the rule of the first part being harder.