Violin Forum/Message Board

Elkwoman46 · Member Joined: 13 Feb 2008 Posts: 33

Regarding the 3/4 violin I bought. The bridge question...how can I tell? When is it at risk? Mine looks old and so forth, but, what are the things to watch for when it should be replaced?
Or is it about how the strings if they are sunk down? Or? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Is this something that is changed every so often? Or just when necessary?
Or?
Should I go ahead and order a backup while I am at it?
Thanks so very kindly.

Becky · Senior Member Joined: 09 Apr 2007 Posts: 83

Strings need to be semi-frequently changed. Bows need to be semi-frequently rehaired. Bridges on the other hand don't often need to be replaced. There's nothing wrong with an old bridge, if the only "problem" is that it's old. If the bridge is warped then a new one needs to be made. If the height is wrong or if the strings have worn the grooves too deep then you'll need a new bridge (or at least adjustments made to the current one). sometimes bridges need a bit of adjustment, because after time they can move a bit out of place. It shouldn't take more than a minute for a luthier to move it back to the correct position and you definitely don't need a new bridge if that's the problem.
Even if you did need a new bridge, I would not order one. When you get a bridge, it will need to be fit for your violin (the feet need to be fit for the curvature of your violin. The height and shape of the bridge needs to be adjusted to fit your fingerboard). Bridges come oversize and too thick. In addition to being fit, they need to be thinned down to just the right thickness in different areas. Bridge fitting is not something a beginner violinist can do--in fact, the majority of advanced violinists couldn't fit a bridge. It's a task that is best left to a luthier--especially when you consider how much of an impact on sound the bridge has. If you need a new bridge, take your violin to a luthier and he or she can fit a new one for you. They tend to have bridges in stock. It's not something you need to bring to them.

Elkwoman46 · Member Joined: 13 Feb 2008 Posts: 33

Hi Becky, okay I took that off my order. Thanks so much for all your advice. I thank you endlessly. I do see how the bridges are formed and altered and customized from the way that are made to sell or how they are purchased.
You have totally enlightened me this day.
Thank you so much.

mapleleaf_gal · Member Joined: 24 Mar 2007 Posts: 73 Location: tucson, az

the bridge should be replaced if it looks warped (bent) or if the grooves underneath the strings are too deep. although you can just file down the bridge a little bit to make those grooves less deep. but DONT DO THIS YOURSELF!! take it to a shop. infact, you should not replace the bridge yourself unless you have had training to do so. you have to cut and fit the feet perfectly, there is a certain height for the string projection, certain curve to the bridge so your bow doesnt hit other strings. if the bridge is not warped and the grooves below the strings are not deep and the bridge is just dirty, then dont replace it. if you are in any doubt, take it to a shop and have them fix it. or if you live in the seattle area, i'll fix it! ha!
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