Why do violin strings break so easily?

Breaks between the upper nut and peg: in almost every case, this breakage is caused by tuning/tightening the string too high. The transition to the upper winding, where the string goes from metal to thread wrapped, is the weakest part of the string.

How long are violin strings good for?

Your strings should be replaced, at minimum, every 9-12 months, but there are too many variables to assign an exact timeframe. Keep in mind that the only real downside to replacing your strings too soon is the cost, while waiting too long can actually result in a number of negative consequences.

Are violin strings different from guitar strings?

Guitar and violin strings are not the same at all, in fact, they differ from each other in both size and material. Guitar strings tend to be thinner and longer than violin strings, have different pitches as a result, and violin strings are usually flat wound rather than round wound.

How often do violin strings break?

To start, violin strings are only designed to last for about three to six months, or roughly 300-playing hours. If your strings have survived that span – and then some – a snap is the sign it’s time to replace them.

Can you reuse violin strings?

One of the most important aspects to learn about “How to change violin strings” is: On a four-stringed instrument like violins, violas, cellos, and basses, there should never be less than three strings on it at one time. This means you only change one string at a time, starting by replacing any broken strings.

How often should a violin bow be Rehaired?

every six months
In general, we recommend a bow rehair every six months to a year, ideally at the beginning of the winter and summer. Rehairing maintains the physical condition of the bow and enhances playability.

What is violin stick called?

violin bow
A violin bow is a wooden stick that is strung with hair (traditionally the hair of a horse’s tail) that is rubbed against tuned strings to produce sound. The bows used on violins, violas, cellos, and basses vary somewhat in terms of length, weight, and the number of hairs used in the stringing process.

Why should I change my violin strings?

The strings you use have the ability to make subtle (or very distinctive) alterations to the quality of the tone, the playability, volume, and responsiveness of your violin. Often changing one or more of your strings can generate significant improvements. Moreover, certain strings sound differently on certain instruments.

Do different violin strings sound different on different strings?

One type of string may sound amazing on one instruments but sour, dull or too bright on another violin. Each instrument is different, and the unique needs of the violinist are important. For example, a classical violinist’s strings might not be right for a blue grass fiddler, and vice versa.

What is the difference between thicker and thinner violin strings?

Thicker strings require a greater level of tension to bring them to pitch, but this also delivers fuller sound and volume, but with less responsiveness. Thinner strings need less tension, but also provide less volume with heightened clarity. Most violinists choose a medium gauge, but remember, the sound produced on your specific violin is unique.

Why does my violin hurt when I try to tune it?

Your violin doesn’t really want to be a source of pain and frustration for you—it only seems that way every time you try to tune it. Yet, it’s true that many problems with your strings can be traced back to a fixable problem on your violin. Your violin strings should sit flush within the respective notches on the bridge.