| 1 | Always store and use the instrument at room temperature. | |
| 2 | Use a humidifier to guard against humidity variations. Stretto, for example. | |
| 3 | After playing use a soft cloth to remove rosin dust from the instrument. | |
| 4 | Store your instrument safely in its case. | |
| 5 | Strings should be replaced at least every 6 months. | |
| 6 | Repairs should only be carried out by a qualified technician or luthier. | |
| 7 | Avoid touching the bow hair (grease) or striking the bow against objects. | |
| 8 | Tighten the bow using the frog end screw clockwise. | |
| 9 | Do not over tighten: the stick should curve toward the hair. | |
| 10 | Apply rosin, not too much, by rubbing the cake across the full length. | |
| 11 | Always loosen the bow hair after use to maximise durability. |
The 'frog' is the end of the bow nearest the hand where the bow hair is tensioned. It is believed that the name is almost certainly a corruption of 'frock', the term used by luthiers for the small vice in which a frog is shaped and fashioned.
Just as the vice gripped the ebony, ivory or whatever material the luthier was using at the time, so the 'frog' provides purchase, or grip, from the player.
Tuning Your Violin. Online tuner here
| 1 | The four strings on the violin are tuned in perfect fifths. | |
| 2 | An "A" tuning fork, digital tuner, pitch pipe or a piano can provide pitch. | |
| 3 | The violin is tuned to G D A E. (Viola & Cello: C G D A. Bass: E A D G) | |
| 4 | Fine tuners and pegs should be used in combination to tune the violin. | |
| If the string sounds lower than the correct pitch: | ||
| Gently turn the fine tuner or peg to the right until it reaches the correct pitch. | ||
| If the string sounds higher than the correct pitch: | ||
| Gently turn the peg or tuner to the left. | ||
| ? | Applying peg paste, as a lubricant, will assist in tuning. See: Hill Peg Paste | |
| 5 | If unsure please ask your teacher. |
Key Image
Click to view a detailed guide:
The Parts of the Violin.
Key Points
Release bow tension. Clean and store in case.
