Which instrument family includes both the violin and cello?

The instrument family that includes both the violin and cello is the string instruments. This category is characterized by instruments that produce sound through vibrating strings. The violin and cello are notable examples, as they both rely on a body that amplifies the sound created by bowing or plucking the strings. String instruments can be made of various materials, traditionally wood, and can be played in various styles, ranging from classical to contemporary genres.

In contrast, percussion instruments generate sound primarily through striking, shaking, or scraping, and do not include stringed instruments. Brass instruments use the player's lips to produce sound in a metal tube, while woodwind instruments typically rely on reeds or the air within the instrument to create sound. Recognizing these distinctions is essential for understanding the different families of instruments and their roles in music.