and in playing for dancing there are several different rhythms.
jig (6/8), reel ( ), hornpipe (with a "dotted" note), waltz (3/4)
someone will fill in the blanks above, I hope . more information
can be found here: Fiddler magazine
there are many contests and festivals in the U.S. most are in the summer time. at most of these events many people play music together outside
the main stage, and there is usually a lot of jamming going on. When
someone besides the fiddler is playing the melody ("taking a break")
sometimes the fiddle part is more like a percussion -- keeping the beat with short bow strokes...Are you in ITALY? good luck with the violin
and happy fiddling to you!