Since the guitar is the most common string instrument played today, we decided to create a list of other string instruments. Remember, no instrument is innately difficult or easy to play. And with the right amount of practice, you can champion anything.
So let's jump right at it and explore what wonderful string instruments are there in the world:
Violin
The violin we play today has been around for approximately 500 years now. This 4 stringed instrument has got to be the most melodious string-based instrument out there. Ranges in different sizes; kids usually opt for the 1/4, 1/2 or the 3/4 violin, whereas adults go for the full size.
The coolest thing about playing the violin is that, if played properly, in one hour, you can burn 170 calories. So, forget about your daily workout sessions, pick up the violin, and let's burn some calories melodiously.
Harp
Harp is probably the oldest instrument in the world. It is said to have originated in 15000BC. Regardless of the harp being a string-based instrument, it is nothing like the guitar.
It is meant to be played by both hands using the first 4 fingers of each hand. To signify its ancientness, harp's paintings can be found on the walls of the prehistoric Egyptian tombs. Don't think of the harp as some back supporting instrument of an orchestra.
It can be found in a ton of different types of music. To name a few; Classical, jazz, folk, and country music commonly uses the harp.
Ukulele
To break the stereotype, the ukulele is not a Hawaiian invention. It actually originated in Europe, and was introduced to Hawaii in 1879. Since the ukulele is commonly known as a mini guitar, it almost overtook the guitar several times. Especially in the 1920s.
The lead singer of the rock band The Beatles and one of the wealthiest musicians alive, Paul McCartney, is a ukulele fan. Ukulele also comes in a bass and banjo version.
The essential difference is of the strings used and the amplifier connected.
Cello
Cello, also known as violoncello, means a "little large violin." Commonly, the cello is used in rock, pop music, and jazz. In the early days, cello strings required the guts of sheep and goats. But in modern times, the strings are made of some sort of metallic material.
In my opinion, the cello can be the toughest string instrument to learn.
Mandolin
Mandolin is considered to be one of the easier instruments to learn. During the middle ages, the mandolin was quite the star among other instruments.
Back then, it was usually played in French and Italian classical music. You are probably familiar with Mozart's work, but did you know that he and a few more popular musicians of the classic times included the mandolin in their composition?
To name a few, Vivaldi, John Craton, and Beethoven. Led Zeppelin is also known to include mandolin in one of their songs, The battle of evermore.
Final Thoughts
These instruments add unique sounds to music compositions, and even knowing the basics can set you apart from the crowd.
The world of string instruments has got so much to offer. Usually, once someone picks up a guitar and has certain level of skill, they branch out to other instruments like the ones mentioned above.