The violin is most commonly played using a bow, which helps bring out long, smooth, and sustained melodies. However, there are other methods used to play violins. Another popular method is “pizzicato,” which relies on using the fingertips to pluck violin strings to create sound.

If you have just started learning to play the violin, you may want to learn more about this technique, how it works, and why people use it.

What Is Pizzicato?

First, let us delve deeper into this interesting technique. Pizzicato, also called pizz for short, is the technique of plucking violin strings using the fingers in place of a bow. The term “pizzicare” in Italian is the origin of its name, which roughly translates into “to pinch”. This technique will help deliver individual sounds from each string rather than a single melody, as with a bow.

Please be aware that this technique is not new – its use can be traced back to the 16th century when Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi used it for his Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorida. Usually, this technique would be employed in parts of a symphony, but popular collections of classical music use it throughout. Béla Bartók's 4th movement in the String Quartet 4 is a popular example.

Benefits of Pizzicato (Plucking Violin Strings)

Create a Richer Sound

If you want to create richer, more pronounced sounds from your violin, using the pizzicato technique may be the best approach. The placement of your violin plucking, combined with the amount of pressure you apply, can deliver louder or warmer tones as needed.

Plucking Violin Strings Add Expression

Plenty of musical pieces incorporate the pizzicato technique. Some pieces may have a passage or two, or simply one or two notes in pizzicato. These are meant to add powerful expressions to the piece and draw sharp focus to the music.

Improve Technique

Pizzicato is also popularly used by beginners to improve their overall violin technique. Beginners can use pizzicato for practicing the violin even without the bow to strengthen their left hand and improve intonation. 

How to Pluck Violin Strings?

Learning the pizzicato technique can be very fun and exciting for new beginners. Here is how you can play the pizzicato:

1. Start by placing your right thumb on the fingerboard's edge to anchor it in place.

2. Extend your finger so you can pluck the string using the index finger.

3. The placement of plucking violin strings affects the type of sound it delivers. If you pluck the violin strings close to the bridge, you will get a tighter, more compact sound. If you pluck close to the fingerboard, you will get a much softer, ringing sound.

4. Next comes pressure. The amount of pressure you use will impact the pitch of your tone.

5. If you have a bow in hand as you pluck, you must practice maintaining the bow as you reach down and pluck with your pointer finger.

6. Avoid using your fingernails; only use the fleshy part for plucking violin strings.

 Choose Alice Violin String Set A747

The choice of string set matters a lot when it comes to playing the violin and learning the pizzicato. It will dictate how beautiful your violin sounds. For the best-performing plucked string instrument, you purchase from a quality supplier.

For instance, one of the most popular choices is the Alice Violin String Set A747. This string set carries a synthetic nylon core which is far more stable in its pitch and delivers sophisticated tonal characteristics. Its string windings are made using a selection of Al-Mg alloy and a pure silver G string. This set is perfect for professionals with its impressive performance!

About Alice

Alice is a world-renowned musical instruments and accessories manufacturing enterprise located in Guangzhou, China. For over 20 years, Alice has been excelling at designing and manufacturing high-quality musical accessories. Our most notable productions include a diverse selection of guitar strings, violin strings, bass strings, and other accessories.

For more information on Alice's products, check out our website!