Pernambuco wood, from the Caesalpinia echinate tree indigenous to Brasil, has been the wood of choice for fine bows since the 18th century. No other wood or wood-substitute offers the same quality of strength, springiness and workability, although many experiments have been conducted using bamboo, the closely related brazilwood, snakewood, and many others. Many thousands…
DetailsWe wrote something previously about the ‘whistling’ problem on the E string of your Violin – and the seemingly endless search for the perfect sound. So, what exactly are we searching for? Laying aside for the moment the issue of a good or bad Violin, the search for the best sound possible from the E…
DetailsHave you ever wondered what the difference in sound would be if, for example, you went for a Larsen Arioso Cello string as opposed to the Standard Larsen Cello string? Or put the other way around – which Larsen Cello string do I have to buy to get the warmest sound? Larsen soundcompass is very…
DetailsIn 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…
DetailsThere 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…
DetailsIt’s a question we’re often asked: When should I change my strings? How long do strings last? It’s a good question to which there isn’t really a correct answer. As a consumer it wouldn’t be uncommon to think ‘they just want to sell me more strings’ but let’s look at it another way: Can you…
DetailsThe new Pirastro Korfker shoulder rest is now freely available. It certainly looks very light and comfortable but it remains to be seen how players relate to it! A comfortable playing stance is so important and players often struggle to find the perfect shoulder rest/chin rest combination that gives the ultimate support. Pirastro have come…
DetailsMy Violin/Viola has a ‘Buzz’ So, your violin new or old, has developed a buzz? From the start let’s distinguish between a buzz or rattle that you can fix yourself, and one which requires attention from your violin shop. Listed following are the steps you can take to fix the problem – but if these…
DetailsWhy Do the Pegs On My Cello Slip? Traditional wooden pegs are a friction fit. On a well set up cello, they should turn smoothly and easily (although some strength is required) and should stay put! The simple fact is that they can and do slip which can be very frustrating. Let’s look at why…
DetailsCame into work this Monday and viewed the beautiful selection of Cellos comprising our ‘Cello Heaven’ …and then horror or all horrors there was a Cello with obvious signs of the dreaded woodworm! A brand-new Cello just arrived from a German workshop and with an active borer. What is woodworm or borer beetle? Woodworm is…
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