High School

What does the term "violoncello" mean?

1) Great Violin
2) Small Violin
3) Violin with extra strings
4) Violin with a different shape

Answer :

Final answer:

The term violoncello means 1. 'great violin', referring to the larger and lower-pitched string instrument commonly known as cello, which is a part of the string family alongside the violin.

Explanation:

The term violoncello refers to a string instrument, more commonly known just as cello. The correct meaning from the options provided is 1. great violin. It is larger than a violin and has a deeper, richer sound due to its larger size. While the violin plays higher pitches, the cello covers the low-pitched string parts in orchestras and ensembles, complementing the violin.

Both the violin and cello are part of the string family and have similar playing techniques, such as using a bow to produce sound. However, the size and octave range are principal differences. A typical cello has four strings and the musician plays it while seated, with the instrument resting on the floor supported by the endpin.