How does a Hardanger fiddle differ from a traditional fiddle?
The Norwegian Hardingfele, or Hardanger fiddle, actually differs quite notably from any other fiddle. The instrument has either eight or nine strings, four of which are played like a violin, while the others resonate sympathetically. These sympathetic strings are not meant to be bowed, and provide the style with a continuous droning sound. The Hardanger can be played in traditional tuning, but sounds best in a slightly higher register, with the strings tuned to troll tuning (A-E-A-C#, understrings tuned to B-D-E-F#-A). The Hardanger fiddling style uses a smoother, bouncier bowing technique with somewhat of a lighter touch. Notable composer Edward Grieg used Hardanger tunes in some of his compositions.
