I don’t think it is the default way of playing.

I would say it’s the default on string instruments and with voice mostly, and only when there is a longer note, and when the instrument or voice is solo or a featured part. Short notes generally have no vibrato. I think it’s an additional way to add variation and emotion to a single tone held for a time, as are the crescendo and decrescendo.

Interesting. Keep in mind that vibrato isn’t used in all types and cultures of music. I know Brahms and Wagner didn’t have it used in their compositions. I’m going to go check out the wiki page:)

Vibrato isn’t default… you have to work with instruments to get it to come out. For example, if you play the violin, you have to shake your wrist while you’re still playing to get that noise. A lot of people didn’t actually use vibrato, but it is popular because it makes it sound nicer at times. It doesn’t sound good to have vibrato on every single note, however.

I think it came about because some people couldn’t hold a pure note, either with voice or with other instruments, and people realized it was fun.

I can no longer play my trumpet without vibrato. My lips and hands tremble (probably due to meds), and so vibrato is my default mode. I’m not sure about my voice, though. I think it can hold a note. It’s hard to control vibrato, anyway.

@troubleinharlem I agree with the OP, vibrato is default. It is even used for performances of music that were written at a time before it’s use became widespread. When I play my ‘cello, I find it quite hard not to use vibrato.

Vibrato is not used (or not used as much as in classical) in certain folk/fiddle genres (cf. Irish, US old-time).

OP: Are you asking a literal question about music history, or are saying that you wish you didn’t have to play vibrato all the time?

@cubozoa: I play the cello also, but still, vibrato is not default. You have to physically do something in order to do vibrato, right? So it isn’t something that just appears out of thin air.

Vibrato was the creation of the 19th century, In orchestral music it was predominately used in the string section, the woodwind and brass usually played “straight”.
Vibrato seriously infected the English brass band movement where at one time it was taken to ridiculous lengths. I was taught to play in a brass band and years later when I took some lessons with a teacher I remember being reprimanded for my vibrato!