Violin Forum/Message Board

[Sweep]

I recently acquired a violin which is presumably half size (the body is about 12 inches)?

I notice some makers supply strings in half and threequarter sizes. Do I need to buy half size strings. I'd expect I could buy full size ones and just trim off the last couple of inches once I've fitted them, but I thought I should ask first.

Also, could I ask about string types? Can any type of string be used, according to preference, or are gut strings and so forth for specific kinds of violin?

- thanks

[Dave Chandler]

You should get strings made for the appropriate size violin, because the tone and playability has a lot to do with the pressure on the bridge and top of the violin because they may be heavier gauge and require higher tension to bring them into tune on a smaller violin.

You can order them on-line from southwest strings, which is one of the better sites, very reliable and competitively priced. Buy as good a set of strings as your budget allows. Leave the gut strings for now to the professionals. You might get a set of strings from your local music store, but I'm betting they won't have the size you need.

Be sure when you put the new strings on, replace them one at a time. Lubricate the slot in the bridge and nut with a pencil lead. Wind them neatly, and bring each up to tune before going on to the next, first G, then E, then D, and finally A. If you take all strings off at one time you could have the sound post fall over inside the violin, then you'd be in trouble! As you go through this routine, its not a bad idea while the string is off, to pull the peg out and apply a little peg soap on it to make it easier to turn and tune.

Also, keep close eye on the bridge as you go through the process, make sure it stays up straight and doesnt start to tilt forward.
_________________
Dave in the Blue Ridge
Southern Violin Association

"Success is the ability to go from one failure to the next with no loss of enthusiasm" Winston Churchill

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