Doublestop Magazine

Hardanger Fiddles

I thought it would be fun to take a look at one of the many violin variants out there. The Norwegian hardanger fiddle is one of the better known examples (if you’ve seen the Lord of the Rings films, you’ve likely heard the hardanger fiddle in action, as it played a prominent role in the soundtrack.) The instrument looks quite similar to a traditional fiddle, but it features eight strings — four played and four droned, combining to make a haunting sound.

As usual, Wikipedia has a nice background article on the subject. The Hardanger Fiddle Association of America has an extensive website. And, if you’re feeling really adventurous, Dennis Havlena has posted instructions for converting a regular fiddle to a hardanger. For obvious reasons, he recommends starting with a cheap instrument! While you’re at it, check out his video of a variety of DIY instruments, if only to watch him banging on a propane tank.