How Tailpieces Can Affect Sound and Playability
Understand the variables that make a difference in an instrument's performance
By David Folland
“A modern tailpiece is a marvel of engineering,” fittings ... Read More...
Instruments, Bows, and Gear
7 Things to Know About Common Bow Repairs
Here's how to know when to get your violin or cello bow fixed and why you should do it.
A Guide to Buying an Affordable Violin Outfit
Today's market offers good values at every price point under $2,000
by Erin Shrader
“The quality of these is so much better than I expected,” said strings... Read More...
Why Fine German Bows Are Such a Bargain
Tips on finding a good-quality stick for under $5,000
by Phillip Kass
If you want to buy the best French bow, be prepared to spend a lot of money. Bows by ... Read More...
The History of Vuillaume’s Bows
Legendary luthier Vuillaume is known for his bows, but he never made one
by Erin Shrader
The top price paid at Bonhams’ March 11 auction sale in London was ... Read More...
A Tale of Two Makers, Jay Ifshin and Haide Lin
From different worlds, two men meet to make the successful enterprise Ifshin Violins
by Erin Shrader
This article first appeared in the June 2009 issue. ... Read More...
A Buyer’s Guide to Carbon-Fiber Instruments
What are the advantages and disadvantages to carbon-fiber cellos, violins, violas and basses? How do they sound? Here's a buyer's guide to carbon-fiber instruments.
How to Select the Right Fine Tuners
Here we take a minute to demystify fine tuners on stringed instruments. How many fine tuners should you use? And which type is best? Read on to find out more
How to Tell If Your Bow Needs a Rehair
Bow hair does break and stretch, and eventually stops engaging the string. Here's what to look and feel for to know if it's time to have your bow rehaired.
How to Winterize Your Instrument
Learn to prevent seasonal damage from temperature and humidity changes
by Erin Shrader
AS SOON AS WINTER sucks the last bit of humidity out of the Midweste... Read More...