FIDDLE OR VIOLIN?

While a common joke suggests this "depends on whether you're buying or selling", the fact is the "fiddle" and "violin" are, for all practical purposes, the same instrument, with the distinction being the kind of music being played.   Indeed, most people agree that fiddle music is primarily dance music, whereas violin pieces can be for listening and playing, but don't necessarily give a call to one's feet.  While either can be simple or extremely complex tunes to play, the music's danceability is no minor distinction, for the playing of the fiddle is first and foremost a social experience, and something meant to be enjoyed not only by the player, but by others who participate in accompanying the music and/or dancing to it.  Its no surprise, then, that playing the fiddle - and fiddle music in general - is a big part of our cultural heritage, and something that continues to be enjoyed by young and old alike.