How to tune a violin
A violin is tuned in perfect 5ths to GDAE. The fourth string (the thickest) being tuned to the “G” that is a 5th above middle “C” on a piano. We’ve found the best way for students to tune is using a violin pitch pipe, because it helps build ear training.
Daily maintenance and cleaning of a violin instrument.
The life span of a violin family instrument directly correlates to how well it is taken care of. The daily ritual of cleaning and the proper storage of an instrument are crucial to its longevity and playability. Always wipe down an instrument’s string with a soft, dry cloth after it is played. There will be rosin from the bow left on the strings and rosin dust underneath the strings on the body. This will build up and degrade th integrity and resonance of the strings if not wiped down, as well as leave a nasty buildup on the body. Also, always loosen the tension on the bow after use. Not doing this could cause the bow to warp or break over time.
How to polish a violin
Violins are much more sensitive than other stringed instruments and as such the need a bit more care. We recommend polishing a violin not more than once or twice a year. Polishing the violin will only help it to look better; it will not enhance the playability or sound. Otherwise, just keep the violin dry and dust free with a soft cloth. Use violin polish when ready but be careful NOT to get any polish on the strings or the bow. Getting polish on either of these will damage the items.
How to tune a viola
A viola is tuned in perfect 5th’s to CGDA. The fourth string (the thickest) being tuned to the “C” that is the same as middle “C” on a piano. It is easy for students to tune their viola, and build ear training, by using Palatino pitch pipes.
How to change a fine tuner tailpiece and tailpiece hanger
Changing a fine tuner tailpiece is an easy job for our violin family instruments. First, remove the strings on the violin and simply remove the existing tailpiece and tailpiece hanger. Line up the end of our new fine tuner tailpiece to the bottom of the saddle. Thread the ends of the tailpiece hanger, or tailgut, through the hole at the bottom of the tailpiece. Fasten the screws and collars to the hanger ends and adjust evenly. Then fit the tailpiece hanger around the endpin groove. The lower saddle bears the weight of the tailpiece so adjust the screws so that the saddle is high enough for the tailpiece to clear the belly of th instrument. Now the violin is ready to be restrung and enjoyed. In just a few simple steps you are on your way to playing again!
How to tune a cello
The cello is tuned to CGDA, with the “A” being just below middle “C”. We offer cello pitch pipes that makes it easier for students to tune their instrument, while developing ear training.
How to tune a bass
The bass is tuned to EADG, like the bottom four strings of a guitar. We offer a quartz tuner for bass that will help students to tune their instruments while further developing ear training skills.
Storing a violin
Humidity and temperature are arch-enemies of violins. A good balance between the two is important for good violin health. Dry weather might cause cracking in the wood and finish whereas extreme humidity and heat could cause the varnish to bubble. It is best to keep the instrument indoors in an air-conditioned room. If you don’t have the luxury of AC, interesting trick is to keep a wet paper towel in a punctured plastic bag in the violin case. This will act a s humidifier and keep the violin safe. Never leave a violin in a car., as the heat will be devastating to it. Because it is easy to damage a violin, keep the instrument in a closed case after it has been played. Violins are delicate instruments that can be greatly injured by the slightest mishap. Following these simple rules can keep a violin around for a lifetime or longer.
Getting the correct size violin for students
Violin - With arm extended, measure the length from the left side of the middle of the neck (where you would take a pulse) to the middle of the palm on the left hand.
| 14 1/8" - 16 7/8" |
1/16 Size Violin
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| 16 7/8" - 18 ½" |
1/8 Size Violin
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| 18 ½" - 20 3/8" |
1/4 Size Violin |
| 20 3/8" - 22 1/4 |
½ Size Violin
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| 22 1/4" - 23 3/4" |
3/4 Size Violin
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| 23 3/4" & Up |
Full Size Violin
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Viola
The hand should be able to cup the scroll while the instrument is in playing position.
Cello
While sitting straight in a chair, feet on the floor, with the end pin partially extended, rest the cello against the chest at a slight angle. The C-string should be near the left ear, and the top of the cello body should be in contact with the breast bone. The left hand should be able to run the length of the fingerboard. The knees should comfortably hug either side of the instrument.
Bass
Stand in the playing position with the instrument. The nut should be near eye level. The right hand should be able to run the length of the bow across the strings comfortably. The left hand should be able to finger all the strings.
How to apply rosin to a bow
Before applying rosin to a violin bow, be sure that th rosin cake has some powder on the surface. If there isn’t any powder on th surface. Scrape a coin along the surface to give texture to the cake. Making sure that the bow hair is taught, rub the rosin gently along the bow hair from th frog to th top of the bow. Do this 25+ times if the bow is new, 4+ times if it is not. Be carful not to touch the bow hair with your hands when putting rosin on, as the oils in your hand will damage it. Put the bow to the strings and play a few open strings. If there is any slippage with the bow, or if little sound is being produced, it needs more rosin. A properly rosined bow will bring a very clear, expressive tone from the violin.
What is the difference between ebony, ebonized, and ebonite?
Ebony: Is one of the most dense woods available, It is a preferred wood for violin fittings.
Ebonized: Most commonly used to describe a hard wood that is dyed or stained dark black to give it the look of ebony. It is sometimes mistakenly used for woods that are painted black, an inferior way of treating the wood.
Ebonite: A hard rubber or plastic that resembles ebony.
What is a soundpost and what does it do?
The soundpost is a small piece of wood that is inserted in a violin behind the bridge. The exact placement of a soundpost is critical in giving your violin the best sound possible. This is because the role of the soundpost is to transmit the vibrations of the top and back of the violin through the body. It acts in conjunction with the bass bar to project a rich an even tone. The soundpost is not glued into place, it is simply held in place by its position between the op and back of the violin. Slight adjustments of the soundpost can have a dramatic effect on a instruments sound. The suggested placement of the soundpost is jut behind the right foot of the bridge on the opposite side of the bass bar. A soundpost setter will be needed to place your soundpost properly.
- Information sourced from The Music Link Inc.
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