Chordophones
Kit Violin (Pochette)
Kit Violin (Pochette)
Bowed Instruments
Europe
From 1001 to 1900 AD
The pochette, also known as the kit violin or pocket fiddle, is a small, portable stringed instrument resembling a violin. It was designed for use by dance masters and musicians in courtly and noble settings from the 15th century through the 19th century. The instrument’s small size allowed it to be carried in a pocket, making it convenient for musicians who needed to travel or teach dance lessons.
History of the Pochette
The pochette became popular in Europe during the 15th century and continued to be used until the 19th century. Dance masters often used it while teaching dance steps to their students, as its compact size allowed for easy transport and use in smaller spaces. Despite its small appearance, the instrument was designed for adults rather than children, contrary to popular belief. The renowned luthier Antonio Stradivari is known to have crafted a few pochettes, with one surviving example displayed at the Conservatoire de Paris Museum.
Design and Variations
Pochettes come in various shapes, such as the narrow boat-shaped sardino or the violin-shaped kit violin. They typically feature a long fingerboard relative to their small body size, which helps maintain a melodic range similar to larger violins. While the body is small, the instrument’s neck is extended to allow for the full range of notes. The pochette’s strings are often tuned an octave above a violin, and it is played with a short bow due to its compact dimensions.
Pochettes were often made from fine materials like exotic woods, ivory, and tortoiseshell, and decorated with elaborate carvings. These details made them not only practical but also visually appealing to the upper classes.
Playing Techniques
Unlike standard violins, pochettes cannot be played resting on the shoulder. Instead, players hold them against the chest or along the upper arm while playing with a short bow. This playing style makes the instrument ideal for musicians who need to move or play in confined spaces. The sound of a pochette is typically higher-pitched than a standard violin, with the three-string variants being particularly known for their bright tones.
Notable Players
Many famous figures have been known to use the pochette. Scottish fiddler Niel Gow reportedly carried a pochette in his pocket while traveling to Blair Castle. The American statesman Thomas Jefferson also owned at least two pochettes, reflecting the instrument’s widespread appeal among musicians and enthusiasts.
Cultural Significance
The pochette was an essential tool for dance masters, helping them teach and accompany dance routines in noble settings. It played a significant role in both courtly entertainment and everyday music practices of the time. The instrument’s historical use in Claudio Monteverdi’s opera L’Orfeo to evoke bird songs shows its unique sound character, often described as a “chirp” that adds a distinct element to musical compositions.
FAQ
What is a pochette?
A pochette is a small bowed string instrument, similar to a violin, designed for portability. It was commonly used by dance masters and street musicians from the 15th century until the 19th century. Its small size allowed it to be easily carried in a pocket.
What is the difference between a pochette and a kit violin?
A "kit violin" is a type of pochette that is shaped like a small violin. The term "pochette" refers to the entire category of pocket-sized stringed instruments, which also includes variations like the boat-shaped "sardino." Both are designed for ease of carrying and playing in confined spaces.
How is a pochette played?
Due to its small size, the pochette cannot be played resting on the shoulder like a violin. Instead, it is held against the chest or along the upper arm and played with a short bow. This playing position makes it suitable for small spaces and travel.
What materials were used to make pochettes?
Pochettes were often crafted from high-quality materials such as exotic woods, ivory, or tortoiseshell, and they frequently featured intricate carvings. Their small size and decorative design made them popular among the nobility and wealthy patrons.
Was the pochette designed for children?
No, the pochette was not designed for children. It was developed for adults, particularly dance masters, as its small size made it convenient for teaching dance in court settings or playing music while traveling. The misconception that it was intended for children likely arises from its small size.
What is the historical significance of the pochette?
The pochette played a key role in courtly and folk music from the 15th to the 19th century. It allowed dance masters to accompany their lessons and performances easily. Renowned luthier Antonio Stradivari is known to have crafted pochettes, highlighting their importance in historical music practices.
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