American bass viol facts for kids
The American bass viol is a special musical instrument with strings, played with a bow. People also called it a church bass or Yankee bass viol. It was very popular in the early 1800s in New England, which is a region in the northeastern United States. This instrument helped people sing together in Puritan churches.
Even though it was called a "bass viol," it actually looks more like a large cello. A cello is a string instrument that sits on the floor when you play it. The American bass viol is different from an older instrument called a bass viola da gamba, which is also sometimes called a "bass viol." These American instruments came in many shapes and sizes. Many were unique, made by local craftspeople.
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What is the American Bass Viol?
The American bass viol is a type of string instrument. It is played by drawing a bow across its strings, similar to how a violin or cello is played. It was designed to provide a deep, low sound. This low sound helped singers in churches keep the right tune and rhythm.
How it was Used
In the 1800s, many churches in New England did not have organs or pianos. The American bass viol filled this need. It played the bass notes for hymns and songs. This made it easier for the whole group to sing together. It was an important part of church music for many years.
History of the American Bass Viol
The first known American bass viol was made in 1788. It was created by a person named Benjamin Crehore in Massachusetts. This shows that people started making these instruments quite early.
Famous Makers
One very well-known maker of these instruments was Abraham Prescott. He was famous for making large string instruments, especially double basses. Prescott made a lot of American bass viols. It is believed he made between 500 and 600 of them. The earliest one he made dates back to 1809. His work helped make these instruments widely available.
Why it Disappeared
The American bass viol was popular for several decades. However, its use began to decline in the 1840s. This was because a new instrument became very popular: the reed organ. Reed organs were easier to play and could make a louder sound. They also took up less space. As more churches bought reed organs, the American bass viol was used less and less. Eventually, it fell out of common use.
