I might sound stupid now but I wonder if there is a difference between being a fiddler or a violinist. Is a fiddle different from a violin?

Actually, that`s a good question.

It`s the same instrument but might be set up a little differently. Fiddlers sometimes have lower bridge to make playing double stops (two strings at once) easier.

Many (but not all!) fiddlers also play mostly in the first position with great use of open strings. Most fiddle music (but not all!) is played in 3-4 keys. There are also many fiddle players that play entirely by ear (very amazing!) - I don`t know if this happens at all among classical players.

And the rest is the music! Classical vs. folk, bluegrass, etc.!