Hardanger fiddles
Hardanger Fiddle
National Folk Instrument of Norway
The Hardanger fiddle or Hardingfele dates back to at least 1651 with the Jaastad fiddle. This instrument is now in the museum at the University of Bergen in Bergen, Norway. The origin of the Hardingfele is unclear. It could have descended from the family of baroque instruments found in Europe or possibly from some early Scottish instruments.
The early Hardanger fiddles, although certainly related to modern Hardanger fiddles, were really quite different. The early instruments were very narrow in their body, and the arching was extremely high. They have understrings, yet the number of them varies. The patterns of their decorations were more geometric.
More information about Hardingfele can be found on the Hardanger Fiddle Association of America website (HFAA.ORG).
The modern Hardanger fiddle appeared in 1850 when influences from mainland Europe began to have a much greater influence on Norway. It is at this time that the body became very violin-like yet retained the unique style of the “f” hole. The decorative patterns became more floral in their appearance. Four understrings became the standard. Recently, a fifth understring has been added.
There are many tunings for the Hardingfele. A very common tuning is E A D A, with the whole instrument raised at least to a full pitch. The under strings are often tuned A F# E D with the A and D being the same pitch as the upper A and D. Pitch references are high to low.
My Instruments
Each instrument I make is individually crafted with tight grain spruce tops and moderately flamed maple back and sides. Occasionally, I will use alder for the back and sides, as many of the old Norwegian instruments used black alder. Mother of pearl and bone is used for decoration. The decoration is a combination of traditional patterns and artistic liberties.
I supply each instrument with a quality rectangular case customized for the extended length of the instrument’s peg box.
Special Projects
Hear the MP3 music of the quartet, which was played at Amerikappleik in 2003.
