Erste Violine

As Printed on a Score

Labels the first-violin staff in German scores — Erste Violine, or Erste Violinen for the section; Violine I or 1. Viol. in other editions — and Erste Viol. on later systems. A solo or a reduced number over the part (die Hälfte, 1. Pult) lasts until Tutti or Alle restores the section.

Abbreviations: Erste Viol., I. Viol., 1. Viol.

Also spelled: Erste Violinen, Violine I

How Composers Use It

The first violins traditionally lead the orchestra — their principal is the concertmaster — and carry the main melody and the top of the string harmony. Writing Erste Violinen in full rather than Violine I is a habit of German editions and changes nothing in how you write the part; what matters is where you place the line, since the highest strings are the most exposed voice in the section.

Example

Mahler, Symphony No. 5, fourth movement (Adagietto), staff label: “Erste Violinen.”, shortened to “Erste Viol.” on later systems — in a movement scored for strings and harp alone.

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