Violin Tuning and Strings Page

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   Violins are tuned by twisting the pegs in the scroll, around which the strings are wrapped. The A string is tuned first, typically to 440 Hz. The other strings are then tuned to it in intervals of perfect fifths using double-stopping. Some violins also have fine tuners fitted to the tailpiece. These permit the tension of the string to be adjusted much more finely by rotating a small knob. Such tuning is generally easier than using the pegs, and adjustors are usually recommended for younger players. Adjustors work best, and are most useful, with higher tension metal strings. It is very common to use one on the E-string even if the others are not equipped with them.

   The tuning G-D-A-E is used for the great majority of all violin music. However, other tunings are occasionally employed (for example, tuning the G string up to A), both in classical music (where the technique is known as scordatura) and in some folk styles.

Violin fine tuner

   The following strings are some of the most popular string types.   NOTE: I do not stock violin strings.

Thomastik Infeld Red Set:

There are two E strings. The gold-plated E string and the 'silver'.  The rest have a composite core, and a first winding consisting of an alloy designated 'Natural Alloy'.  Then G string is wound in pure silver, and the A and D strings with an alloy called hydronalium.

Retail around £40

Thomastik Infeld Dominant Set:

Full Set includes All Ball-End Aluminum/Perlon A, Aluminum/Perlon D, Silver/Perlon G, and Ball-End Steel E

4/4 violin (medium)

Retail around £35

D'Addario Pro Arte

 

 4/4 size, medium gauge

Retail around £18

D'Addario Helicore

Scaled to fit 4/4 size violin with a playing length of 13 inches (328mm)

Plain steel E, and multi-stranded steel core in other strings, resulting in optimal playability while producing a clear, warm tone. The smaller string diameter provides quick bow response.

:Retail around £18

Pirastro Tonica

Special synthetic core of flexible single filament. Great dependability, full volume, lively sound, high degree of modulation, quick response, and resistant to changes in humidity.

4/4 Violin String Set Medium Gauge with Ball End E

Retail around £20