Care & Installation Of Strings
The tone of a string can be dramatically affected by rosin buildup and dirt. It is advisable to clean strings regularly with a little alcohol on a soft cloth. Warning: Do not allow any alcohol to come in contact with the instrument. The life of your strings will vary and be affected by care, climate, and number of hours played. Strings on violins and violas should be changed at least every two years, with the average being once a year.
Before installing new strings, rub the nut with a #2 pencil. This allows the strings to slide easily and prevents breakage. For proper tuning, steel strings require string adjusters. Perlon and gut core strings, because of their elasticity, do not require fine tuners and are installed directly into the tailpiece. They are tuned easily with pegs. The E string is steel, therefore a string adjuster is required. Replace strings one at a time. This keeps the bridge in place, avoids drastic changes to the top of the instrument and eliminates the possibility of the sound post falling or moving. Install string in tailpiece, then place string in the peg string hole. Wind string from the center to the peg box wall. Do not overlap strings.
After receiving string orders, inspect strings thoroughly for kinks, loose winding, or any other defects. Strings are not refundable, once installed.
String Types
- Gut Strings - Warm, rich sound, dark overtones. Recommended for high school and advanced students
- Synthetic/Per/on Strings - Nice balance between bright and dark sound. Less sensitive to humidity than gut. Recommended for middle school and high school students.
- Steel and Steel Core Strings - Big sound. Tunes easily when first installed. Use four strings adjusters. Recommended for beginning students.