Control the Environment:

The recent cold snap in Minnesota has brought sub-zero temperatures and reduced humidity. These drastic changes in weather can greatly affect your instrument. As humidity levels drop, your instrument’s wood will shrink and change shape as it dries out. Edges are designed to be glued lightly and act as a safety valve that give way to prevent cracks from forming in the top or the rest of your instrument. These open edges need to be repaired to keep your instrument sounding its best. Here are tips to prevent these open edges from forming in the first place and ensure your instrument stays in top condition throughout any season of the year, or if you travel frequently to other climates.

Maintain Humidity Levels:

Use a hygrometer in your case to track humidity levels. If it’s too low, consider using a humidifier designed for musical instruments. Ideal levels are between 40-60%. Consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed at home. Also consider a humidifier pack for your case. These small packs absorb excess moisture or add moisture in the case to help maintain optimal humidity levels. We recommend the Boveda humidity packs and have those available at the shop.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Avoid leaving your instrument near heat sources or cold drafts. Store it in a stable environment, such as a temperature-controlled room. Never leave your instrument in direct sunlight. Never leave your instrument in a hot or cold car, even for a short time.

Use a Quality Case:

A good violin case provides insulation against temperature fluctuations. Ensure that yours is padded and use a silk cloth or bag. When you stop by the shop, we can ensure that your case can withstand temperature fluctuations, and recommend a new case if need be. 

Inspect Your Pegs: 

The change in humidity will also cause tuning pegs to loosen which causes strings to go out of tune, and make your bridge move. Use your pegs regularly so they don’t loosen unexpectedly and keep your instrument in tune. If you continue to have trouble with keeping your pegs on your instrument you may need to have them refitted in the shop.

Rapid changes in temperature and humidity due to weather fluctuations or travel can significantly alter the sound and structure of your instrument. If your instrument is suddenly not sounding its best for any reason, especially after a big weather change, bring it into the shop and we will bring it back to its full potential.

Time for something new?

Over the past month we’ve described fixable items for your instrument, setup, and playing to get the sound that you want. What if nothing that we try is helping? If all options are exhausted, and you are still having trouble or are frustrated playing, it is time to look for a new instrument, bow or both. But, what level should the instrument be, how much do you need to spend? The answer lies in matching the right instrument and bow to the player.

In our experience, instruments and bows are easiest to play when their tonal qualities match the player’s preferences and expectations. This is true for beginners and ranked professionals alike. To find a match,  we have the player try many different instruments, allowing them to discover what type of sound they enjoy, and what is within their budget.The right one produces the best sound in the hands of the player. We have seen amazing results from students and professionals who have the chance to play a finer instrument. They have an enlightening and surprising experience when they realize that their instrument has been holding them back.

A custom ordered instrument is a great option that expresses your style and is tailor made to produce the sound you want to achieve. We start by observing the player perform on the wide range of instruments in the shop to discover the tone they enjoy, and their approach to playing. Then, we determine the model to be used, and the tone and response to create. Instruments can have a wide range of tonal qualities that are focused and fast, warm, broad and creamy, deep, bright or dark, crisp or warm and edgy or smooth. With these parameters in mind we can create the instrument and also choose the color of the varnish to give them the custom finishing touches to further express the player’s style. A custom instrument is an investment that will appreciate in value over time, and can be a cherished item that is passed down through generations.

Bows should be a partner with the instrument and player that compliments their sound. A match to the person and instrument makes playing easier and more enjoyable. The right bow will act as an extension of their arm and compliment their playing style. Finding the right bow helps the instrument’s tone production, but also has a dramatic effect on the ability to express the player’s emotion. We have a wide range of bows available so we will find your match.

You don’t want to limit potential by playing with the wrong instrument or bow. You may not even know what is possible until you find the right combination. It can provide possibilities that might not have been available, and can open doors to advancement both technically and professionally. 

With the experience we have, we take the anxiety out of shopping. You can be confident that you are making the right decision. Until the end of December we have 10% off most of our stock instruments and bows, and offer payment plans so you can enjoy your new instrument or bow right away. We are available for appointments through 6pm and look forward to your visit!