The Pochette Pocket Violin
The Pochette was a pocket-size violin widely used in Europe by dance masters during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It was a very small violin with three strings, in France, the Pochetto). Because of the slender shape, a dancing musician could slip it into his jacket while demonstrating a step then quickly withdraw it to play a tune. They were made in various shapes including a boat, medieval rebec, miniature viola. They were often made of exotic woods, ivory or tortoiseshell and had elaborately carved heads. Despite the adornments, they produced a muted sound.
Youtube of pochette being played:https://www.youtube.com/
Youtube of pochette being played:https://www.youtube.com/
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