String tensions and choice

In a previous article we briefly discussed the subject of String tensions and gauge.  Cellists appear to be constantly searching for the perfect combination of strings, and for good reason. Every Cello is different and to maximise the tonal quality and projection of your Cello you need to settle on the combination that is right…

String tension and gauge

There is often some confusion surrounding string gauge and tension for bowed stringed instruments. For this article, I will concentrate on Violin strings, but the same principles apply to Viola, Cello and Bass. The gauge of a string is the measurement of its diameter or in other words, its thickness. This was easily measured in…

Students and Practice

Practise, practise and practise a well known professional musician once said when asked what he does in his spare time! All very well you may reply but every time I remind my budding musician to practice it is perceived as a ‘nag’. I’ve often tried the positive approach – ‘well dear that was really beautiful,…