by 
The Curious Bag
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The fiddle generally refers to any bowed or stringed instrument, though most often describes a violin. As a term, the fiddle is most often used to describe the violin when played in folk, country and bluegrass music.
History
The modern fiddle traces its roots to the British, Irish, and Scottish music traditions. In America, the fiddle came to prominence during the 1930s at the same time as the rise of radio and records.
Identification
The fiddle most often refers to a violin, which includes four strings and can be bowed with a horsehair bow or plucked with a thumb or forefinger.
Features
The fiddle features four strings--the low G, D, A and high E. Fiddle tuning rarely deviates from this tuning. Tuning pegs on the headstock allow the fiddler to tune the instrument, while a chin rest often is found on the bottom of the instrument.
Size
The standard fiddle size is known as 4/4 (full) size--23 5/8 inches from the bottom of the instrument to the top of the headstock. The fiddle also boasts smaller sizes, including 3/4 size, 1/2 size, and 1/4 size. Smaller sizes are typically more appropriate for children or smaller players.
Performance
Famous fiddle players include Charlie Daniels, Mark O'Connor, and Alison Krauss.
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