Basic operations

This page lists all the simple operations that every good violinist should master to keep their instrument in good working order and get the most out of it.

I am gradually completing this series of tutorials. If you regularly check this page, you will see them appear below in the relevant chapter.

 

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01 - Adjust the bridge straightness and position

In this first tutorial, you will learn all about the settings of the bridge, a subject too often neglected by violinists and yet so important !
You will learn how to inspect the setting and how to perform the right gestures to adjust the vertical, longitudinal and lateral position.

 

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:34 - Awareness
02:24 - Inspect the bridge verticality
05:24 - Adjust the bridge verticality : caution
06:29 - Adjust the bridge verticality : option 1, seating
08:33 - Adjust the bridge verticality : option 2, standing
09:07 - Adjust the bridge verticality : option 3, on a bench
11:46 - Inspect longitudinal position
15:01 - Inspect lateral position
16:09 - Adjust longitudinal and lateral position
16:41 - Conclusion

 

Formula to calculate the string tension and look smart :
T = m . F² . 4 . L²
With
T = string tension, in Newtons
m = linear mass of the string, in kilograms per meter
F = vibration frequency of the string, in Hertz
L = string vibrating length, in meters

02 - Clean up your strings

A quick tutorial in which I unvail the ultimate method for properly cleaning the strings of your violin.

03 - Change your strings

The 10 essential tips for correctly changing the strings of your violin, whether it is equipped with classical friction pegs or modern reduction pegs.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:34 – Tip 1 : Secure your violin
01:20 – Tip 2 : Pay attention to the choice of the new strings set
03:38 – Tip 3 : Do not take down all strings at the same time
04:33 – Tip 4 : Protect the sound board
05:06 – Tip 5 : Do not mix up strings or pegs
06:32 – Tip 6 : Lubricate the nut and the bridge
07:09 – Tip 7 : Lubricate the pegs
08:04 – Tip 8 : Remove the protection sleeves
09:27 – Tip 9 : Watch the way strings are clamped to the tail piece
11:14 – Tip 10 : Watch the way strings are wound around the pegs
11:36 – String winding with classical friction pegs
14:43 – String winding with modern reduction pegs
19:16 – Conclusion

Did you like this tutorial ? Would you like to see others ?

A nice place where to buy strings or peg putty.

04 - Maintain your pegs

05 - Change and adjust your chin rest

06 - Adjust your shoulder rest

07 - Change and adjust your tailpiece

08 - Check the button adjustment

09 - Check and maintain your bow

10 - Check the finger board profile