🏷️ INSTRUMENT PROFILE Family Bowed strings — the lowest instrument of the orchestral string section Sound production The strings are bowed or plucked, and their vibration passes through the bridge into the resonating body Number of strings Usually four; five-string instruments and four-string basses with a low extension are also used Tuning E1–A1–D2–G2, in perfect fourths Characteristic tone Deep, broad, and earthy, ranging from a dark orchestral foundation to concentrated lyricism in the upper register Typical practical range Approximately E1–G4; extended down to C1 or B0 on some instruments Main materials Spruce top, usually maple back and ribs, ebony fingerboard Musical role Low harmonic and rhythmi...