Questions 40-50
Of all modern instruments, the violin is apparently one of the simplest. It consists in
essence of a hollow, varnished wooden sound box, or resonator, and a long neck, covered
with a fingerboard, along which four strings are stretched at high tension. The beauty of
Line design, shape, and decoration is no accident: the proportions of the instrument are
(5) determined almost entirely by acoustical considerations. Its simplicity of appearance is
deceptive. About 70 parts are involved in the construction of a violin, Its tone and its
outstanding range of expressiveness make it an ideal solo instrument. No less important.
however, is its role as an orchestral and chamber instrument. In combination with the
larger and deeper-sounding members of the same family, the violins form the nucleus
(10) of the modern symphony orchestra.
The violin has been in existence since about 1550. Its importance as an instrument
in its own right dates from the early 1600's, when it first became standard in Italian
opera orchestras. Its stature as an orchestral instrument was raised further when in 1626
Louis XIII of France established at his court the orchestra known as Les vingt-quatre
(15) violons du Roy (The King's 24 Violins), which was to become widely famous later in
the century.
In its early history, the violin had a dull and rather quiet tone resulting from the fact
that the strings were thick and were attached to the body of the instrument very loosely.
During the eighteenth and nineteenth century, exciting technical changes were inspired
(20) by such composer-violinists as Vivaldi and Tartini. Their instrumental compositions
demanded a fuller, clearer, and more brilliant tone that was produced by using thinner
strings and a far higher string tension. Small changes had to be made to the violin's
internal structure and to the fingerboard so that they could withstand the extra strain.
Accordingly, ,a higher standard of performance was achieved, in terms of both facility
(25) and interpretation. Left-hand technique was considerably elaborated, and new fingering
patterns on the fingerboard were developed for very high notes.
【題組】41. "The King’s 24 Violins" is mentioned in line 15 to illustrate
(A) how the violin became a renowned instrument
(B) the competition in the 1600's between French and Italian orchestras
(C) the superiority of French violins
(D) why the violin was considered the only instrument suitable to be played by royalty
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