Violin techniques encompass various methods used to produce sound and express musical ideas on the violin. Key techniques include bowing, which involves the movement of the bow across the strings, and finger placement, where the left hand presses down on the strings to create different pitches. Other important techniques are vibrato, a slight oscillation of the pitch for warmth and expression, and pizzicato, where the strings are plucked instead of bowed. Mastery of these techniques allows violinists to perform a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary.