String Family Violin The violin is the smallest and highest pitched instrument in the string family. You can play the violin by plucking the strings or by drawing a bow across its strings. Listen here! Viola The viola is slightly larger than the violin and has a lower and deeper sound. Listen here! Cello The cello (or violoncello) is a larger string instrument that is played in a seated position. It has an endpin that rests on the floor to support the instrument’s weight. The cello can play very low. Listen here! Bass The double bass is the largest and lowest pitched instrument in the string family. Listen here!