Whether you adore country pickin’ on the fiddle or Stravinsky compositions in the concert hall, violins have a sound easily adaptable to a variety of musical genres. They haven’t always looked the same since their heyday during the 16th century, but the violin has a recognizable tone and appearance. Some of the most valued instruments have sold for millions of dollars at auction. National Violin Day on December 13 recognizes the impact and cultural contributions of a most versatile instrument.