MUSIC MATES

Archive for the ‘music Instruments maintanance’ Category

The violin as an instrument can be very expensive to purchase and own, which is why it’s important that you take appropriate steps to look after it accordingly.  Not only do you have to learn how to play it, but you also have to learn how to maintain it.  The most common damages to the violin occurs to the tailpiece, which can break easily, the fingerboard, which can become unglued, the bridge, where the violin can snap in half, and the bow, which is easily breakable.  The following are some tips that will help you avoid these types of damages as well as to help maintain its desirable state.

Tip One – The Avoidance of Temperature Extremes

Make sure you never store the violin, even temporarily, in places that see varied and extreme temperatures.  This includes the attic or the basement.  The varied or extreme temperatures will force the violin to eventually break due to the increase and decrease of timber mass that is associated with varied temperatures.  Keep it in a cool, dry place for best protection.

Tip Two – Storage

Make sure you keep the instrument in a proper violin case where it’s both protected from the elements and to provide protection in the event of a drop or fall.  Store the case in a location that won’t see a hive of activity thus minimizing any possible occurrence of damage.

Tip Three – Avoid Rosin Overkill

Rosin is the ingredient which is applied to the bow hair causing the hair to grip the strings to play a sound.  The rosin you require will often depend on the temperature in which the violin will be played.  For warmer climates, lighter rosin is recommended, for cooler climates, darker rosin is recommended.  Make sure you don’t overkill the strings with too much rosin as the rosin excess will drip onto the violin causing stains.

Tip Four – Avoid Cheap Strings

It’s important that you buy quality violin strings.  Poor quality strings will cause tension that will result in cracks and other damage.

Tip Five – Don’t Ignore Small or Minor Violin Problems.

Slight damage or hairline cracks can result in bigger problems down the track.  Take the violin to a repair shop immediately if you notice any damage.

I hope this little violin tip sheet helps you look after your violin accordingly!