bridge
A contrasting section in a song that connects two parts, or the wooden piece on a string instrument that supports the strings.
In Depth
In song structure, the bridge is a section that provides contrast to the verse and chorus, typically appearing once in the second half of a song. It often introduces new melodic material, a different chord progression, or a key change, breaking the repetition before the final chorus. In pop songwriting, the bridge is sometimes called the middle eight.
On string instruments, the bridge is the thin, carved wooden piece that stands upright on the instrument's body, holding the strings at the correct height and spacing. It transmits the strings' vibrations to the soundboard, making it crucial to the instrument's tone. A violin bridge is carved from maple and must be precisely fitted to each individual instrument.
The bridge of a violin is held in place entirely by the tension of the strings — it is not glued or attached in any way. If all four strings snap, the bridge simply falls over.