Since the range of the violin is quite large, and its range works so well for a wide range of melodies, many song writers write two or more parts for the violin in their music. There are few orchestral pieces not written for at least two violin sections.

Considering that, almost every orchestra splits their violinists up among a first violin section and a second violin section. The second violin section typically plays music in lower octaves, and is often harmonizing the first violin's music. The second violin section is usually considered the backup or supporting role among the two.